There has been “no change” to Ireland’s security status or terror threat level amid escalating tensions involving Iran, according to Tánaiste Simon Harris.
Speaking to Gript when asked about reports that German security authorities are bracing for the potential risk of Iranian sleeper cells carrying out attacks in Europe, the Fine Gael leader said the Government is closely monitoring developments and any potential implications for Ireland.
Harris declined to go into detail on security matters but confirmed that the State’s threat level remains unchanged.
“I have no intention of commenting on national security issues, other than to say of course we monitor all of these issues very carefully and very closely,” he said.
“There’s been no change to our security status or threat levels in this country. There is a very specific process in place should those be changed. But obviously we’re continuing to monitor the situation globally, and any impact for Europe, and of course Ireland is part of Europe.”
His comments come after German officials indicated that retaliatory actions by “Iranian sleeper cells in Europe” could not be ruled out following recent military strikes connected to Iran.
As previously reported by Gript yesterday, An Garda Síochána confirmed that it regularly liaises with the Jewish community in Ireland, and continues to do so amid the ongoing conflict and wider security concerns across Europe.
In a statement, a Garda Press Office spokesperson said the force does not comment on specific security arrangements.
“An Garda Síochána does not comment on security matters in relation to any individual or group,” the spokesperson said.
“Gardaí from the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau have a good relationship and engage with the Jewish community in Ireland on an ongoing basis and continue to liaise with the Jewish community at this time.”
German media outlets, including Die Welt, have reported that officials in several federal states have reviewed or strengthened protection measures at Jewish, Israeli and American-linked institutions.
Marc Henrichmann, chairman of the Bundestag committee responsible for oversight of intelligence services, has stated that retaliatory actions by Iranian sleeper cells in Europe could not be ruled out, with interior ministries indicating that agencies remain on heightened alert.
Authorities in Bavaria and Hesse have said that police are maintaining increased vigilance around sensitive sites, although no specific threat intelligence has been publicly identified.