The United States has issued a security alert to its citizens in the United Kingdom, urging heightened vigilance after British authorities raised the national terrorism threat level to “severe”.
The warning followed a decision by the UK government to increase the threat level from “substantial” to “severe”, indicating that a terrorist attack is considered highly likely.
The move came after a stabbing incident in Golders Green, north London, where two Jewish men, Shloime Rand and Moshe Shine, were attacked. The Metropolitan Police classified the incident as a terrorist act. UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis said the decision to raise the threat level was not based solely on the attack but also on wider concerns.
He noted that the change was “not solely as a result of that attack”, adding it had been “driven by an increase in broader Islamist and extreme right-wing” threats.
In response, the US Embassy in the UK advised American citizens to remain cautious and take proactive safety measures. “Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, churches, tourist locations, and transportation hubs. Vary your travel routes and times to reduce predictability,” the embassy said.
“Keep a low profile. Remain aware of your surroundings, including local events. Review your personal security plans. Report social media threats and suspicious activity to local authorities. Monitor local news for updates.”