US military raises alert level for bases in Europe

SPANGDAHLEM, GERMANY – AUGUST 3: The entrance to the U.S. Air Force Spangdahlem Air Base is seen on August 3, 2020 in Spangdahlem, Germany. U.S. Department of Defense officials recently announced that Spangdahlem Air Base’s F-16 squadron, the base’s only flying unit, would be relocated to Italy as part of a reduction in U.S. forces in Germany. Base officials said a closure is not planned and no timeline was given, but regional German politicians have expressed concern about the economic impact of the withdrawal. (Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images)

(NewsNation) — U.S. military facilities across much of Europe are on alert for a possible terrorist attack, according to a statement from U.S. European Command headquarters.

The command notified personnel in Germany, Romania, Bulgaria, Italy and elsewhere that Condition Charlie was in effect.

The Charlie threat level “applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating that some form of terrorist act or attack against personnel or facilities is likely,” the Army website says.

“USEUCOM advises personnel in the European theater of operations to remain vigilant and alert at all times,” the command said in a statement. “USEUCOM is constantly monitoring the security situation to ensure its personnel are informed and in the best position to ensure the safety of themselves, their families and their dependents.”

The statement did not identify any specific threat, but came on the heels of increased concerns about terrorist threats following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7.

The warning urges U.S. military personnel and employees to be especially vigilant and to expect significant delays at access points to bases.

“Charlie” is the second highest alert level. The troop’s protection levels are Normal, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Delta, the highest alert level.

Charlie will bring several changes to the base’s day-to-day operations, including the suspension of “non-essential” activities and staff such as hair salons and some food service establishments. Many others will work from home, the statement said.

The increased threat level was first reported by Stars and Stripes.

U.S. European Command oversees operations of all branches of the military in Europe and Africa. Its headquarters are in Stuttgart, Germany, and directs Army headquarters in Wiesbaden, Marine Forces in Naples, Italy, Air Force Command at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Marine and Special Operations Forces in Stuttgart, and U.S. Space Forces at Ramstein Air Base.