Stockholm police launch major operation to prevent Iranian-linked attacks

Swedish police have launched a large-scale security operation around Stockholm’s diplomatic district to prevent potential attacks linked to Iranian interests, public broadcaster SVT reports.

The operation, codenamed “Arena,” involves round-the-clock patrols, drone surveillance, and hidden cameras to deter threats against Jewish, Israeli, and American targets. A designated security zone, roughly the size of four football pitches, will be enforced from 15:00 local time.

Police have described the measures as maximal, with officers ordered to remain in the area even if serious violence occurs elsewhere in the city. “We’re constantly evaluating methods, including some we never comment on,” said Ola Österling, a police spokesperson for the Stockholm region.

While no specific threat has been identified, authorities cite a heightened risk due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Experts suggest the operation also serves as a political signal that Sweden is taking all possible precautions.

“The threat level across Europe against these targets was already exceptionally high before the war—now it has reached a crescendo,” said Magnus Ranstorp, a terrorism expert at the Swedish Defence University. The measures aim to increase security, raise the threshold for attacks, and complicate reconnaissance efforts.

Sources indicate particular concern over criminal groups potentially acting on behalf of Iranian interests, a scenario that has occurred in the area before.