Islamic State today urged its supporters to target “crusaders” everywhere but especially in the US, Europe and Israel.

The jihadist group’s spokesman, in a recorded message posted on IS’s Telegram channel, praised the attack on the Moscow concert hall, which left more than 140 people dead.

It is recalled that European governments are at the highest levels of alert in recent years following the attack on the concert center in Moscow last week by Islamic State militants.

Within 48 hours, France raised its watches and danger warnings to the highest level while Italy also ordered enhanced measures. In Germany, officials speak of a “very serious risk”.

The Moscow attack, the deadliest Islamist extremist operation in Europe claimed by Islamic State, shows officials say it has been planning new operations against European targets for several years.