Heightened Security at Cologne Cathedral and Austrian Churches Over Potential Attack Threat

Authorities Respond to Indications of Threat from Islamic Extremist Group, Encourage Public to Continue Holiday Celebrations

Security measures have been heightened at Cologne Cathedral in Germany and churches in Austria due to indications of a potential attack, with the threat reportedly coming from an Islamic extremist group.
Despite the threat indications pointing to New Year's Eve, authorities are taking precautions over Christmas as well, with visitors to the Cologne Cathedral undergoing security checks.
German and Austrian police have reportedly arrested several suspects in connection with the threat, with the suspects allegedly connected to ISIS-K.
The Cologne Cathedral, a major tourist destination visited by approximately 6 million people annually, was searched with sniffer dogs as part of the security measures.
Despite the security concerns, authorities have urged the public not to shy away from holiday celebrations, with the interior minister for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia encouraging people to go to church and celebrate Christmas.