The European Union police agency has warned that the escalating conflict in the Middle East will have immediate repercussions for security across the bloc. Officials said the crisis is likely to heighten the threat of terrorism, serious and organized crime, violent extremism, and cyberattacks.

A spokesperson said authorities expect an increase in cyberattacks targeting European infrastructure, along with a surge in online fraud schemes that use increasingly sophisticated Artificial Intelligence tools. The spread of conflict-related information online could also be exploited by criminal networks.

Groups linked to Iran, including those connected to the so-called Axis of Resistance, may attempt destabilizing activities within European Union territory. These actions could range from terrorist attacks and intimidation campaigns to terrorist financing and cybercrime. Officials added that lone individuals or small self-directed cells could further intensify the threat.

The rapid circulation of polarizing content on the internet is also seen as a factor that could accelerate radicalization among diaspora communities and other individuals. The warning comes as fighting between Iran and Israel continues following joint air strikes by Israel and the United States, with the conflict already causing significant casualties and regional instability.