A 23-year-old Syrian man was arrested following a stabbing attack in Villach, Austria, on February 15, which left several people injured. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner condemned the attack, describing the assailant as an Islamist who had self-radicalised online. Karner praised a local Syrian man who intervened to prevent further harm. This incident marks Austria’s second deadly terrorist attack in recent years, echoing a prior assault in Vienna in 2020.
Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen expressed anguish over the tragedy, offering condolences to the victims’ families. The Free Syrian Community of Austria distanced itself from the assailant, stating that such actions do not represent the Syrian refugees who have sought safety in the country.
In response to the attack, local officials cancelled upcoming carnival festivities and activated a platform for witnesses to share evidence. Mental health support will be available for students when schools reopen.
The incident has sparked calls from political leaders, including far-right and conservative figures, for stricter immigration regulations and a more rigorous approach to asylum policies in light of rising violent crime. These developments have ignited discussions on the need for societal safety reforms in Austria.