Spain reports highest jihadist terrorism arrests since 2004

Spain recorded its highest number of jihadist terrorism arrests since 2004, with 100 individuals detained last year. According to the terrorism balance report by the Memorial Center for Victims of Terrorism, jihadism remains the primary threat to the country.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska highlighted a trend of brutal radicalization among youth and minors, noting that digital spaces facilitate the rapid spread of extremist narratives. The report indicates that 13% of those detained showed affinity with groups such as Hamas, the Al-Qassam Brigades, or Hezbollah, a phenomenon linked to the conflict in Gaza.

In addition to arrests, authorities expelled 25 individuals suspected of radical activity, including nine imams. The report also noted the dismantling of a cell involved in procuring materials for Hezbollah drones and identified detainees from various backgrounds, including citizens of Spain, Morocco, and Tajikistan.