The threat of a terrorist attack in the United Kingdom has been raised, with authorities upgrading the national threat level from “Substantial” to “Severe”.
In practical terms, this means an attack is now considered highly likely.
The decision follows a recent incident in Golders Green, north London, where a 45-year-old man reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” before attacking and injuring two Jewish men, aged 76 and 34, with a knife.
However, officials stressed that the increase in the threat level is not based solely on this incident, but on a combination of factors. These include intelligence on the activity of extremist groups both domestically and internationally, as well as broader geopolitical instability, which continues to have an impact on national security.
Responsibility for setting the UK’s terror threat level lies with the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre, which works closely with the domestic security service MI5. Assessments also draw on intelligence from police and international security agencies. Threat levels do not have a fixed duration and can be adjusted at any time.
What it means for daily life
The move to “Severe” indicates that an attack is more likely than before, but not inevitable. For the public, this is expected to result in an increased police presence at key locations, including transport hubs and major events, along with stricter security checks at airports, railway stations and large venues.
Authorities have already urged heightened vigilance among the public and warned of possible delays to travel or entry into the country due to enhanced security procedures.
While emphasising that there is no need for alarm, officials have encouraged people to continue their daily routines, albeit with greater awareness.
The United Kingdom operates a five-tier system to assess the risk of a terrorist attack:
- Low: An attack is highly unlikely
- Moderate: An attack is possible but not likely
- Substantial: An attack is likely
- Severe: An attack is highly likely
- Critical: An attack is expected imminently or there is specific intelligence indicating an imminent threat