MI5 lowers Northern Ireland terrorism threat level, cites police, community efforts

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) – The UK's domestic counter-intelligence and security agency M15 on Wednesday officially downgraded the terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland from "severe" to "substantial."

This adjustment indicates that, while an attack remains likely, the overall risk has decreased, marking a positive shift in the region’s security landscape.

“The decision to change the threat level is taken by MI5, independently of ministers,” Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris said in a statement.

"This is a systematic, comprehensive and rigorous process, based on the very latest intelligence and analysis of factors which drive the threat," it said.

"The fact that the threat level is being lowered is testament to the tremendous efforts of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and MI5 to tackle Northern Ireland related terrorism. This positive step reflects the commitment of communities from across Northern Ireland to build a safer place to live and work," it added.