(AFP) Sweden’s government on Thursday ordered 15 government agencies to strengthen the country’s ability to prevent terrorism, in response to a worsened security situation following protests involving desecration of the Koran.
Tensions have flared between Sweden and several Middle Eastern nations after an Iraqi refugee staged two protests in which he desecrated the Koran.
“Recent destructive events — in particular various demonstrative burnings — have increased the risks for Sweden,” Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said in a statement posted to Instagram.
“We have, according to the Swedish Security Service, gone from being what is called a legitimate target for terror attacks, to being a prioritised target,” he continued, noting that the situation was “very serious.”
