Islamic State calls for Ramadan attacks in US, Europe

The Islamic State group has called on supporters to carry out attacks in the United States and Europe during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan that began two weeks ago.

In an audiotape circulated online Monday, spokesman Abu al-Hassan al-Muhajer praised last week’s attacks in Iran’s capital, saying the country is “weaker than a spider’s web” and calling for more assaults.

Al-Muhajer also called for attacks in Russia and Australia, saying “heaven is reached under the shadow of swords.”

IS has called for attacks during Ramadan in the past. This year it has claimed responsibility for attacks in Britain, Egypt, Iran and the Philippines that killed dozens of people and wounded hundreds.

Seventeen people were killed in Wednesday’s assault in Tehran that simultaneously targeted the country’s parliament and shrine of late founder of the Islamic Republic Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

And in London on June 3, terrorists killed eight people after driving into pedestrians and then embarking on a stabbing spree at London Bridge. They were shot dead by police.

Times of Israel staff contributed to this report.