US military raises alert level for European bases: reports

This level is ordered when “an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating that some form of terrorist act or attack against personnel or facilities is likely,” the U.S. Army website states.

The highest level, “Delta,” is used when a terrorist attack has occurred or is “imminent.”

The US European Command (USEUCOM) did not confirm the status change when asked by AFP, but said: “We remain vigilant.”

The Pentagon, meanwhile, said: “Due to a combination of factors that potentially affect the safety of U.S. service members and their families stationed in the European theater, U.S. European Command is redoubling its efforts to emphasize vigilance during the summer months.”

The US State Department is currently advising American citizens in Germany, where USEUCOM is based, to be extra cautious about terrorism.

Although no specific threat was mentioned, European countries have been on high alert since gunmen killed almost 150 people in an attack outside Moscow in March. The terrorist group “Islamic State” (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack.

France has also increased its state of alert ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris, while an international football tournament is currently taking place in Germany.

bur-des/dw