ISIS has issued a chilling World Cup security threat, calling for lone-wolf attacks across 11 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The terror group urged followers to carry out vehicle rammings, stabbings, and arson attacks with the explicit aim of killing non-believers.
ISIS Propaganda Publication Details Attacks
In its al-Naba propaganda publication, ISIS wrote: "Crusader states whose armies have not been satiated with the blood of the Crusader America, and which hosted, and these days the Crusaders are holding a cup... the matches would be held in eleven cities, and before you is the singing in the heart of Crusader America and its sisters, bodies and hearts." The group called for stabbings, stating: "They have taken him as a role model and a sword against the necks of the disbelievers and hypocrites, for this is true heroism. So prepare yourselves, for dullness, laziness, and lethargy are not among them."
Vehicle Attacks and Arson Encouraged
The terror group further urged followers to use vehicles as weapons against crowds, likening casualties to goals scored in a football match. "Then know, O Muslims, that the safest path is to bleed your poor, wretched one, and wherever you believe in your car, you record more of their goals in the net," the organization wrote. It also instructed: "Imagine that you have succeeded... by igniting a fire in the stands to create benefit in their eyes, and their bodies spread it! A huge one that takes the lives of hundreds of the nation of the Trinity."
Players and Fans Targeted
ISIS demanded death for all, particularly players, branding them offspring of "Crusaders" intent on destroying Islam. It likened them to livestock and claimed sport has "led them astray." The group wrote: "The victory lies with those who seize this opportunity... to admiring and becoming attached to the 'player,' and engaging in jihad by intensifying campaigns to cripple America and wound the hearts of its citizens." It added: "This is an open invitation to all mujahideen... Train them to follow their example, for idleness and joy are not among them."
Security Measures Intensified Across Host Cities
Serious security concerns have gripped host cities across the US, Canada, and Mexico ahead of World Cup fixtures. Authorities in numerous locations have bolstered defenses against drone threats while tightening security measures across wider metropolitan areas. Guadalajara in Mexico deployed heavily armed police officers and National Guard personnel to patrol its streets. Across the US, federal agencies, state and local police forces, and private organizations are working round the clock to keep cities safe. Some are assigned to securing stadiums and fan zones, while others escort teams and safeguard dignitaries. They possess hunter drones capable of firing nets over objects in prohibited airspace, bag-scanning robot dogs, enormous X-ray lorries, and thousands of AI-powered cameras monitoring public areas where supporters are anticipated to congregate.
