The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (DSIS) has warned that Denmark is at an increased risk of potential terrorist attacks due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza and recent incidents of Quran desecration in the country.
According to DSIS’s annual assessment released on Thursday, the likelihood of an incident remains at level four on a five-point scale, indicating a serious threat, but the risks have intensified within the current level. Bloomberg news agency quoted Michael Hamann, the head of DSIS’s Terrorism Analysis Center, stating, “The desecration of the Quran and the conflict in the Middle East have impacted the threat situation in Denmark.” He further added, “We believe that the terrorist threats against Denmark and Danish interests abroad are likely to increase for at least the next year.”
Denmark faces various security threats, including increased militarization by Russia near Danish borders, cyber-espionage, and terrorism. China’s growing influence and aggressive behavior are also affecting Western security interests, including Denmark’s. The Danish Defence Intelligence Service (DDIS) has highlighted these complex threats, noting the challenging geopolitical landscape shaped by major powers like Russia, the US, and China, especially in the Arctic region .
The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) identifies terrorism, political extremism, and espionage as primary threats to national security. PET emphasizes the significant risk of terrorist attacks, mainly from militant Islamists, but also notes threats from right- and left-wing extremism. Right-wing extremism is considered more serious than left-wing in Denmark.
Moreover, other radical groups, including conspiracy theorists and climate or gender extremists, are on PET’s radar for potential violence to promote their agendas.
Additionally, cyber threats, particularly state-sponsored cyber-attacks, have been highlighted as significant risks to Denmark’s security. The DDIS and PET have pointed out that militant Islamist groups like ISIL and the state of affairs in Russia, coupled with the menace of cyber espionage, represent notable security policy challenges for Denmark.
