Arabic version: رجل نمساوي يعترف بالذنب في مؤامرة هجوم على حفلة تايلور سويفت
According to The Guardian,
A 21-year-old Austrian citizen known only as Beran A has pleaded guilty in an Austrian court over a jihadist plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna nearly two years ago, which led to shows by the US megastar in the country being scrapped. The defendant faced charges including terrorist offences and membership in a terrorist organisation. The plot was thwarted at the 11th hour, leading to the cancellation of Swift’s three scheduled performances in August 2024.
The planned attack was intended to target concertgoers gathered outside the Ernst Happel stadium, with estimates suggesting up to 30,000 people could have been present each night, with another 65,000 inside the venue. Prosecutors revealed that Beran A aimed to kill as many individuals as possible using knives or homemade explosives. He has been in custody since his arrest in August 2024 and could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Beran A, along with a Slovak national, Arda K, was also involved in planning attacks in the Middle East, although only Beran A was charged in connection with the Taylor Swift plot. He reportedly swore allegiance to the Islamic State and shared propaganda through various messaging services. Prosecutors noted that he had even produced explosive materials and attempted to purchase weapons in connection with the attack.
The trial is currently ongoing in Wiener Neustadt, with four hearing days scheduled, the last of which is set for May 21. This case has drawn parallels to previous terrorist incidents, including the 2017 Manchester bombing at an Ariana Grande concert, which resulted in numerous casualties. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of thwarting such plots to ensure public safety at large events.
