Unexpected Counter-Terror Operation Protects Major Vienna Event

A CIA alert thwarted a planned ISIS attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, safeguarding thousands of lives.

At a Glance

The CIA provided critical intelligence to Austrian authorities.
The plot aimed to kill thousands at the concert.
Multiple individuals connected to ISIS were arrested.
Taylor Swift’s concerts in Vienna were canceled for safety reasons.

CIA Intelligence Thwarts Terror Plot

CIA intelligence enabled Austrian authorities to disrupt a major terrorist plot targeting a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna. The plot, crafted by individuals connected to ISIS, intended to kill thousands of people. David S. Cohen, the Deputy Director of the CIA, confirmed the agency’s vital role in providing the intelligence that averted the potential carnage.

Austrian law enforcement acted swiftly, arresting two suspects on August 7. Subsequent arrests followed as they dismantled the terrorist cell. Among those detained were a 19-year-old Austrian who had pledged allegiance to ISIS and a 17-year-old with connections to both ISIS and al-Qaida. Bomb-making materials and technical devices were discovered at their residences.

Terrorists Who Plotted Taylor Swift Concert ISIS-Style Attack Had Been Hired as Security For Venue https://t.co/Nsf2vsvK8Q

— Ainsley Earhardt (@ainsleyearhardt) August 8, 2024

Targeting Taylor Swift’s Tour

The suspects specifically targeted Taylor Swift’s sold-out concerts in Vienna, which were expected to draw up to 65,000 fans within the stadium and 30,000 onlookers outside. Authorities found that the main suspect, a 19-year-old, had been planning the attack since July. He uploaded an oath of allegiance to ISIS online, leading to his eventual surveillance and capture.

“The C.I.A. provided intelligence to Austrian authorities that allowed them to disrupt a plot that could have killed thousands of people at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna this month, the agency’s deputy director said on Wednesday.” – Cohen

The secondary suspect, a 17-year-old, possessed materials supportive of ISIS and al-Qaida and was employed at the concert venue, providing him with insider access. Austrian authorities, working in conjunction with international intelligence agencies, managed to prevent the attackers from executing their deadly plan.

🎤Organizers cancelled three sold-out Taylor Swift's concerts in Vienna after officials announced arrests over an ISIS-connected terrorist plot.

But that didn't stop Swifties from gathering and singing in the streets. pic.twitter.com/j8uxQIA1Nm

— NoComment (@nocomment) August 9, 2024

Concerts Canceled Amid Safety Concerns

The planned attack forced the cancellation of the three sold-out concerts in Vienna, which came as a disappointment to Taylor Swift’s fans. Barracuda Music confirmed the cancellations, emphasizing safety concerns. The cancellation affected numerous fans who had invested in travel and lodging.

“With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety,” – Barracuda Music

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer expressed his empathy for disappointed fans but reiterated the importance of prioritizing safety. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner underscored the seriousness of the situation, affirming that a tragedy was averted through early recognition and prompt action by the intelligence community. Taylor Swift has not publicly commented on the plot or the cancellations.

“The situation was serious, the situation is serious. But we can also say: A tragedy was prevented,” said Interior Minister Gerhard Karner.

The CIA and Austrian intelligence continue to work together, searching for any additional individuals who may have been involved or had knowledge of the thwarted plot.