The UK’s terrorism threat level has been raised to Severe, meaning an attack is now considered highly likely, following a series of recent incidents.

The decision was announced by the Home Secretary on 30 April 2026, with the change applying across the United Kingdom.

Police have stressed that there is no intelligence to suggest any specific threat to Scotland at this time.

The increase comes in response to recent attacks targeting Jewish communities and a terror incident declared in north London on 29 April.

Stuart Houston said the change reflects a wider security assessment rather than a direct local risk.

“Today the Home Secretary announced an increase in the UK’s Terrorism Threat Level to Severe, meaning an attack is now highly likely.

“This decision has been made in response to a series of recent attacks on Jewish communities and a terror attack declared in north London yesterday (29 April).

“I want to stress that there is no intelligence to suggest any specific threat to Scotland.

“However, I do want to take this opportunity to urge the public to remain alert but not alarmed.

“You should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland.”

The Severe threat level is one of the highest in the UK system and indicates that an attack is considered likely, though not necessarily imminent.

Authorities have not introduced any immediate new restrictions, but the change is intended to heighten awareness across the public and organisations.

Police Scotland has encouraged people to stay aware of their surroundings and to report anything unusual or suspicious.

Members of the public can contact Police Scotland on 101 for non emergency concerns, while emergencies should always be reported by calling 999.

The message from police is clear, vigilance matters, but there is no cause for panic.

The UK’s terrorism threat level has been raised to Severe, with police urging the public to remain alert while confirming there is no specific threat to Scotland at this time.