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‼️ Islamic State supporters are helping would-be terrorists choose civilian targets and prepare attacks on a forum infiltrated by LBC. The investigation has uncovered discussions about attacking Christmas markets, hospitals and schools, alongside bomb-making material, advice on obtaining weapons and instructions intended to help members avoid detection. In one exchange, a user asks which targets to prioritise before saying they are considering a suicide attack. Another person seeking help with multiple explosive devices is offered instructions through a private messaging service. A leading extremism researcher who reviewed the exchanges told LBC the forum was “especially troubling because of the brazenness of the interactions”, warning that supporters encourage each other towards violence. Moustafa Ayad, executive director for Africa, the Middle East and Asia at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue and its research chair in global Islamism and counter-terrorism, said the discussions reflected a wider network in which extremists seek both ideas and assistance for attacks. The forum, which LBC is choosing not to name, combines extremist propaganda with individual advice. Members asking questions about committing violence receive replies, encouragement and directions to further material, while other users offer to continue conversations privately. In a thread titled “Help with target priorities”, one user asks fellow members to help decide where to attack. “There are multiple opportunities, and I don’t know which one should be on the top of the list,” they write, before listing Christmas markets, New Year celebrations, hospitals, schools, Pride events and other civilian settings. Discussing hospitals, the writer describes a desire to terrify non-Muslims, while expressing concern that Muslims could also be present. Another member replies in Arabic, discussing the targets and encouraging violence. Full story below 👇🏽 https://t.co/uBwWbhY4MD