ISIS threats raise security concerns ahead of World Cup 2026
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Reports have highlighted security threats attributed to the Islamic State (ISIS), including calls to target venues hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup and attempts to incite attacks during the tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The tournament is taking place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 16 cities in the three North American countries.
According to material attributed to ISIS and circulated through the group’s media channels, the organization urged supporters to exploit opportunities to carry out attacks. One statement published by the group said: “A vigilant believer should prepare himself in all circumstances to seize every opportunity available to support Islam, spread its message, fight disbelief and repel aggression.”
The statement continued by referring to the World Cup, claiming that “the crusaders are holding the Cup in the heart of crusader America and its sisters,” while describing the tournament as an event that extends beyond sports.
British newspaper reports, including coverage by The Sun, said propaganda materials linked to ISIS contained inciting language and direct calls to target stadiums. The reports emerged as the tournament got underway on June 11, prompting host countries to maintain heightened security measures.
According to the reports, the threats also referenced an image of the Pope holding a World Cup football and included mentions related to Pope Leo XIV, who was scheduled to visit the Canary Islands on the same day the tournament opened in Mexico.
Meanwhile, security reports indicated that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is being protected by one of the most extensive security plans in the tournament’s history. The measures include multiple layers of security around stadiums and team training facilities.
The security arrangements reportedly involve restricted-access zones surrounding venues, temporary no-fly zones over selected facilities and the deployment of advanced technologies designed to detect and counter unauthorized drones. Electronic jamming and interception systems are also being used to enhance protection of stadiums and training sites.
ISIS, which once controlled large territories in Syria and Iraq, continues to pose security challenges through dispersed cells and online propaganda networks despite suffering significant territorial losses in recent years.