The Brussels terror attack carried out by an ISIS terrorist has sent shockwaves across Europe, causing the Sweden-Belgium Euro 2024 qualifier football match to be abandoned. Two Swedish nationals tragically lost their lives in the attack, and a third person was injured. The victims were reportedly wearing the Swedish national team’s football shirts. The incident prompted Swedish footballers to express their unwillingness to continue playing the second half, a request to which the Belgian team agreed. As a precautionary measure, around 35,000 fans present at the stadium were initially asked to remain inside before being evacuated later on.
The severity of the situation led authorities to raise the terror alert to the highest level in Brussels. The still-at-large terrorist was armed with an assault rifle, adding to the urgency of capturing him. According to Eric Van Duyse, a spokesperson for the Belgian federal prosecutor, the assailant had posted a video on social media confessing his affiliation with the Islamic State terrorist group. In the video, the attacker, self-identified as Abdesalem Al Guilani, claimed responsibility for the attack and expressed allegiance to Allah, stating, We live for our religion, and we die for our religion.
Law enforcement agencies were monitoring the online activities of the terrorist and scrutinizing the video he posted on social media. Disturbingly, footage from social media platforms showed a man armed with what appeared to be an assault rifle entering a building after disembarking from a scooter. Gunshots were heard shortly after his entry, while police and emergency services quickly cordoned off the affected area.
The incident garnered international attention, with prominent figures expressing their condolences and solidarity. French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the profound impact the attack had on Europe, while Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo extended his sympathies and emphasized the collective responsibility to combat terrorism. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed her heartfelt support to the victims’ families and urged swift action in apprehending the suspect.
Sadly, the terrorist attack in Brussels harkens back to similar devastating incidents in other parts of the world. The released video eerily brings to mind the Pulwama attack in India and the gruesome murder of Kanhaiya Lal, a Hindu tailor. In both instances, the perpetrators flaunted their association with terrorist organizations and justified their reprehensible acts. These incidents highlight the need to remain vigilant and united in the face of terrorism.
As the investigation continues and authorities work tirelessly to bring the attacker to justice, the world must stand together against such acts of violence. While these events shake societies to their core, they also serve as a stark reminder of the importance of international cooperation in maintaining peace and security.
