U.K. Raises Terror Threat Level from ‘Severe’ to ‘Critical’ Following Manchester Bombing, Another Attack ‘May Be Imminent’

The London Eye

The United Kingdom raised its terror threat level to the highest level, “critical,” after a suicide bombing in Manchester resulted in the death of 22 people.

The move was announced by Prime Minister Theresa May, following a recommendation that it be raised to “severe” after a man identified by police as Salman Abedi set off a bomb at the Manchester Arena as crowds were leaving at the end of an Ariana Grande concert.

“It is now concluded on the basis of today’s investigations that the threat level should be increased for the time being from severe to critical,” the prime minister said in a statement that was broadcast on television.

“This means that their assessment is not only that an attack remains highly likely but that a further attack may be imminent,” she added.

As a result of the change in status, the government will station military personnel at potentially vulnerable sites to allow police to conduct patrols and also station them at public events including concerts and sporting events.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)