United Kingdom: Terror threat level raised to critical May 23

Event

On Tuesday, May 23, Prime Minister Theresa May raised the terror threat level in the United Kingdom from “severe” to “critical.” The threat level was increased following the bombing in Manchester on the night of Monday, May 22. May believes that another attack may be imminent and said that military personnel could be deployed to assist police forces throughout the country.

Context

The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the terrorist attack in Manchester on Tuesday. At least 22 people were killed and 59 more were injured in an explosion that occurred at the Manchester Arena (located in the northern English city of Manchester) at approximately 22:40 (local time). The incident occurred at the end of a concert being given by pop singer Ariana Grande. Police officers are treating the incident as a terrorist attack carried out by a suicide bomber, who they have indicated was killed in the blast. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether any accomplices of the attacker are still at large.

The Manchester bombing was the UK’s largest terrorist attack since 2005, when 52 people died and 700 others were injured in bombings on London’s public transportation network.

Advice

Individuals present in the United Kingdom are advised to anticipate a heightened security presence throughout the country (particularly in urban centers), adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities, and report any suspicious objects or behavior.