Australia Raises Terrorism Threat Level To ‘Probable’ Amid Rising Extremism

Australia’s domestic intelligence agency, ASIO, has elevated the nation’s terrorism threat level to “probable” due to increasing extremism, Director General Mike Burgess announced Monday.

Burgess highlighted a more volatile and unpredictable security environment, stating, “This decision was not taken lightly. More Australians are adopting diverse extreme ideologies and are willing to use violence to further their causes. Politically motivated violence now ranks alongside espionage and foreign interference as key security concerns.”

He noted the trend’s growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, further accelerated by recent terrorist attacks and military responses in Israel. “Individuals are embracing anti-authority ideologies, conspiracy theories, and hybrid beliefs,” Burgess added.

He warned that potential attacks could occur with little to no warning, making detection challenging. “An escalation of the Middle East conflict, particularly in southern Lebanon, could further strain tensions and fuel radicalization.”

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However, Burgess emphasized that “probable” does not mean inevitable, nor does it indicate imminent attack plans. “Australians should be aware, but not afraid.”