In yet another stark reminder of the ongoing Islamic terrorist threat in Western Europe, Belgian authorities have arrested three suspects who were allegedly plotting to assassinate Prime Minister Bart De Wever using drone-mounted explosives.
The arrests, made in Deurne, Antwerp, near the Prime Minister’s residence, underscore the evolving tactics of jihadist terrorism and the persistent threat to Western democratic leaders. During raids, authorities discovered what appears to be an improvised explosive device, along with steel balls and a 3D printer – components consistent with the creation of drone-delivered weapons.
This represents a significant escalation in terrorist methodology in Belgium, marking the first known attempt to deploy drone technology for an assassination on Belgian soil. The suspects, aged 16, 21, and 22, all resided in Antwerp, demonstrating the continued challenge of homegrown radicalization.
Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot confirmed De Wever was among the intended targets, while reports suggest Antwerp Mayor Els van Doesburg may have also been marked for assassination. The threat’s ripple effects reached neighboring Netherlands, where prominent anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders cancelled a scheduled election debate upon learning of potential threats against him.
Defence Minister Theo Francken explicitly identified the Islamic motivation behind the plot, stating “it is terrible for Bart and his family, and of course it’s Islamists again.” This pattern of Islamic extremist violence continues to plague European nations that have embraced liberal immigration policies.
Federal prosecutor Ann Fransen revealed an alarming uptick in terrorism investigations, with Belgium opening 80 cases this year alone – surpassing the total number from 2024. This surge in terrorist activity correlates with increased immigration from regions known for Islamic extremism.
Of the three suspects initially detained, authorities released the eldest due to insufficient evidence, while the remaining two await questioning before an investigating judge. The investigation revealed sophisticated planning, including the acquisition of materials specifically designed to maximize casualties.
This attempted attack follows a disturbing precedent: just last year, five individuals were convicted for plotting against De Wever during his tenure as Antwerp’s mayor. The repeated targeting of Belgian leadership by Islamic extremists raises serious questions about current security protocols and immigration policies.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to uncover potential broader networks and connections to international terrorist organizations. This incident serves as a sobering reminder that Western democracies must remain vigilant against the persistent threat of Islamic terrorism, particularly as terrorist tactics evolve to incorporate readily available modern technology.