United Kingdom: Islamic State claims responsibility for London attack /update 8

Event

On Sunday, June 4, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the terrorist attack in London on the night of Saturday, June 3. The terrorist group issued a statement through the social media app "Telegram", claiming that Saturday's vehicle and stabbing attack was carried out by IS fighters. Government officials said on Monday, June 5, that the attackers have been identified, but have not released any further information.

Although there are no confirmed ties between the attackers and IS, it is believed that the attack was carried out in response to the group’s call for vehicle and knife-based attacks during Ramadan. Police have not established a connection between this attack and the vehicle attack in March on Westminster Bridge, or the bomb attack in Manchester in early May, however analysts believe that the attacks suggest a broader terrorist network is operating within the UK.

Security measures have been increased around all major transportation hubs and buildings, and related transportation disruptions are possible.

Context

Seven people were killed and 21 seriously injured after a terrorist attack in London Bridge on June 3, in which the attackers rammed a vehicle into pedestrians before stabbing several bystanders in the Borough Market area. Police announced that the three attackers, who were wearing fake suicide belts, were shot within eight minutes of police receiving the first emergency call at around 22:00 (local time). All three assailants were killed on site. The attack is the third terror attack on British soil in three months.

On Monday, May 22, at least 22 people were killed and 59 injured in an explosion that occurred at the Manchester Arena. The incident was the biggest since 2005, when 52 people died and 700 others were injured in an attack on London's transportation network.

Advice

Individuals in London are advised to monitor the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by authorities.