Villach Stabbing Attack Kills Boy, Wounds Five, Suspect Linked to Islamic State

A tragic stabbing attack in Villach, Austria, on February 16, 2025, resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and injuries to five others. The 23-year-old Syrian suspect, identified as Ahmad G., is believed to have been radicalized online and has alleged ties to the Islamic State, as evidenced by the discovery of an IS flag in his apartment. Eyewitnesses reported that he shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during the attack, which lasted under ten minutes before a food delivery driver intervened, hitting him with his vehicle. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner described the incident as an 'Islamist attack' and expressed anger over the violence. The attack follows a recent thwarted plot linked to IS, raising concerns about asylum policies and radicalization in Austria. Politicians have criticized the government’s handling of immigration and security, calling for urgent reforms to prevent further violence.