Threat of terror from European jihadists

Many U.S. and European intelligence officials fear that a wave of terror attacks will sweep through Europe, driven by the large number of foreign fighters travelling to Syria to participate in jihadist conflict
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FOREIGN FIGHTERS OF EUROPEAN ORIGIN WHO HAVE TRAVELLED TO SYRIA Numbers based on official figures and estimates. Includes those who have returned or died

Maximum number

Minimum number

UK 500

Ireland 60

Belgium 650

France 950

Spain 50

Finland 45

Sweden 300

Denmark 110

Bosnia 380

Serbia 100

Kosovo 220

Macedonia

Albania

Montenegro 140

Norway 140

Netherlands 120

Germany 570

Lux.

Switz. 

Austria 60

Italy 90

Less than 10 fighters

FACTORS REDUCING THREAT FROM FOREIGN FIGHTERS

Many die in suicide attacks or conflict with opposing forces

Many never return home, but continue fighting in conflict zone or next battle for jihad

Many become disillusioned. Some return to their home country without engaging in further violence

Others arrested or disrupted by intelligence services
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Source: The Brookings Institution, wire agencies

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