Sydney: New Zealand’s intelligence service has warned that a terror attack remains a “realistic possibility” over the next year, driven by global and domestic security trends that are fueling extremist sentiment. The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) issued this warning after reviewing the national terror threat levels, highlighting the growing exposure of individuals to diverse violent extremist content online, which increases the risks of radicalization and violence.

"An attack is a real possibility amid the deteriorating global security situation," said Andrew Hampton, NZSIS Director-General of Security, in a statement.

While the national threat level remains at 'low' since November 2022, the NZSIS expressed serious concerns about the impact of online extremist networks, especially on young people. The report emphasized how minors are being exposed to and influenced by violent ideologies in unprecedented ways.

A recent report by the "Five Eyes" intelligence coalition – Australia, the U.S., Canada, Britain, and New Zealand – also raised alarms about the growing radicalization of youth, some of whom are involved in planning or carrying out terror activities.

The NZSIS warned that a lone actor, inspired by a mix of ideologies, conspiracy theories, and personal grievances, is the most likely perpetrator of any attack. This echoes the tragic 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, where a lone gunman targeted Muslims during Friday prayers, resulting in 51 deaths and many more injuries.

The intelligence agency remains concerned about the accessibility and influence of extremist views online, particularly on communities impacted by Middle Eastern conflicts. "There is an increasing threat from individuals embracing a blend of ideologies, conspiracy theories, and personalized grievances, making their intentions harder to assess," the NZSIS stated.