Iran Accused of Recruiting Minors for Attacks on Israeli Targets in Europe

Reports reveal Iranian-linked networks using social media to recruit children for violent operations, exploiting vulnerable communities in Nordic countries.

Iranian-affiliated operatives are allegedly recruiting children and teenagers to carry out attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets in European countries like Sweden, Norway, and Belgium.
Recruitment is reportedly conducted through platforms like Telegram, TikTok, and WhatsApp, with payments for attacks ranging from €120 for petrol bombings to €1,500 for targeted killings.
Recent incidents include shootings and bombings near Israeli embassies and defense firms, with perpetrators as young as 13 years old, many from immigrant communities in Nordic nations.
Officials suggest motivations range from financial incentives to anger over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with some minors unaware of their connection to Iranian-backed efforts.
Nordic governments are responding with heightened security measures, legal reforms to address youth crime, and increased cooperation to counteract organized crime and foreign influence.

The Sydney Morning Herald