Hoax bomb threats disrupt at least 25 flights across Europe
· Security · European Union
Hoax bomb threats caused at least 25 flights across Europe to be disrupted on Thursday, with some aircraft forced into emergency landings or diversions in London, Dublin and Helsinki. It was the second such wave this week. EU Transport Commissioner said it was "too early" to say if the threats to about 20 flights were linked. Messages reveal how the threat was passed on by air traffic control, and two European airports received threats signed "fighters of the Male State", a Russian far-right movement. There has been no claim of responsibility and no hard evidence so far linking the threats to Russia, Iran or proxy groups, though European officials have accused Russia of hybrid attacks.
Why it matters:Repeated hoaxes across Europe's aviation network test security coordination and raise fears of hybrid warfare at a time of heightened tension with Russia.
Key points
- At least 25 flights were disrupted; some made emergency landings.
- Two airports received threats signed by a Russian far-right movement.
- No group has claimed responsibility and no link has been established.
Sources (original reporting)
More stories from this day
- Tankers hit in Strait of Hormuz as Iran pressure persists
- South Korea expands anti-piracy mission toward Hormuz
- Ukraine seeks aid as Trump meets Putin envoy at White House
- Eight killed in shootings in western Turkey
- Taiwan sees continued US arms support after midterms
- India in final talks to expand BrahMos sale to Philippines