Several United States military bases across Europe were put on a heightened state of alert over the weekend. According to news reports, this was due to concerns that a potential terrorist attack could target U.S. personnel or facilities.

According to CNN who spoke to a U.S. official on Sunday, who is stationed at a base in Europe, the military hasn’t seen this threat level (Charlie level alert) “in at least 10 years.” The official added that it usually means the military has received an “active-reliable threat.”

According to the U.S. Army, the Charlie level of alert “applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely.”

U.S. Army garrison in Stuttgart, Germany, where U.S. European Command (EUCOM) is headquartered, issued a community-wide elevated alert level to Force Protection Condition (FPCON) “Charlie” on Sunday until further notice. The alert status aims to ensure readiness and rapid response capabilities for any potential threats in the region, according to a report by Newsweek. 

Because of this “threat” and whether or not an actual attack follows, the escalation of war is ongoing. The likelihood of any of the conflicts going on right now spiraling into another world war is getting higher by the day.

The U.S. Army employs a system called FPCON to assess and communicate the level of threat to military personnel and resources. These conditions range from normal peacetime operations to the highest state of alert in response to specific threats. According to the U.S. Army, the five FPCON levels are Normal, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Delta, the highest state of alert.

However, Bravo, which indicates an increased or more predictable threat of terrorist activity, became common and implemented widely as a preventive measure to enhance security and preparedness across all Department of Defense (DOD) facilities for many years following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Meanwhile, Charlie sets in motion “curtailment plans for nonessential personnel.” –CNN

The ruling class has yet to say what prompted the heightened alert, while at the same time, European authorities have warned of a potential terror threat on the continent due to highly public events such as the Paris Olympics in July and the current European football championships in Germany.

It’s hard to trust the military-industrial complex. Perhaps this is a credible threat, but it could just be a psychological operation or a fear tactic to panic the masses.