Iran would recruit young people on the Snapchat app to carry out terrorist attacks in Europe, according to German intelligence services.

An exclusive investigation by Euractiv and warnings from German intelligence services highlight an increased threat from Iran, which could escalate terrorist operations in Europe. The German domestic intelligence agency, BfV, has identified a recruitment network called HAYI, which uses platforms like Snapchat to hire young offenders, sometimes minors, paid small amounts to carry out attacks such as explosions and arson. Since the beginning of 2026, 17 attacks attributed to this network have been documented. This strategy allows for the generation of threats that are difficult to anticipate and counter.

Additionally, dozens of individuals from Germany have traveled to Iran for military training, and recently, a coordinator of HAYI operations was arrested in Turkey. Analysts warn that Europe must prepare for a combination of cheap attacks and more sophisticated operations, making the terrorist threat continuously reorganizing.