A senior EU official, Ylva Johansson, has warned of a “huge risk of terrorist attacks in the European Union” during the upcoming holiday season, attributing the increased threat to societal polarization resulting from the Israel-Hamas war.

Johansson did not provide specific information but mentioned the recent fatal stabbing of a tourist in Paris. The EU is allocating an additional €30m for enhanced security.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser echoed concerns about the potential radicalization of violent Islamist perpetrators.

The warning comes amid heightened security measures following a deadly attack near the Eiffel Tower.

Recent incidents and arrests in Germany also indicate a high alert for potential attacks, with a focus on Christmas markets.