Heightened Security in Paris and Madrid for Champions League Quarterfinals Amid Terror Threats

As the European Champions League quarterfinals unfold in the capitals of Paris and Madrid, heightened security measures have been implemented in response to terror threats. The Al-Azaim Foundation, an affiliate group of IS, issued posters calling for attacks on the quarter-final ties scheduled for this week. Paris and Madrid are hosting significant matches, with PSG facing Barcelona in Paris and Atletico Madrid clashing with Borussia Dortmund in Madrid.

Yesterday, security had been considerably reinforced in Paris and thousands of officers were deployed in Madrid following prior threats. The security apparatus is on high alert after recent events in London and Madrid, where games took place between Arsenal and Bayern Munich, and Manchester City and Real Madrid, respectively.

French authorities have activated advanced security systems as the terror alert remains at four out of five. In Paris, specialist intervention police and drones will be deployed during the matches at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium. Security operations in both capitals will continue through the night with heightened vigilance.

PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, expressed concerns over the threats, emphasizing the need for vigilance and control. In Spain, over 2,000 national police and civil guard officers have been mobilized alongside local law enforcement for the fixtures in Madrid. Security measures have been intensified across all venues.

The French Interior Minister, Gerald Darmanin, highlighted a statement from IS targeting stadiums, prompting coordinated efforts among security services. Last night’s matches saw Arsenal and Bayern Munich draw 2-2, while Manchester City and Real Madrid ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, with security unchanged at the stadiums.

Authorities including UEFA have reassured the public, confirming that all matches will proceed as planned with appropriate security arrangements. The resurgence of IS, particularly its Afghan branch ISIS-K, has raised global concerns after recent incidents, including an attack in Afghanistan claimed by the group.