Berlin Pride attack suspect was Islamic State supporter, says German media; 1 killed, 16 injured

Published 26 July 2026 · politics

German authorities on Sunday launched a manhunt for the suspect accused of driving a van into crowds at Berlin's Pride festival, an attack that killed

German authorities on Sunday launched a manhunt for the suspect accused of driving a van into crowds at Berlin's Pride festival, an attack that killed one woman and injured at least 16 others. The suspect was Islamic State supporter, according to the German media. As per Bloomberg, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who was briefed on the incident late Saturday, condemned it as “an attack on our society”. Italy PM and Berlin Mayor react Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday denounced the deadly vehicle-ramming attack near Berlin's Pride festival, expressing condemnation over the incident. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What was the motive behind the Berlin Pride attack? ⌵ The suspect, identified as an Islamic State supporter, allegedly drove a van into crowds during Berlin's Pride festival, representing a violent act tied to extremist ideologies. 2 How did the Berlin authorities respond to the Pride festival attack? ⌵ German authorities launched a manhunt for the suspect and intensified security measures at the event, while the Berlin Mayor condemned the violence as an attack on the city's values. 3 What were the consequences of the van attack during the Berlin Pride event? ⌵ The attack resulted in one death and at least 16 injuries, prompting the cancellation of the remaining celebrations and raising concerns over safety at public events.

4 Who is the suspect in the Berlin Pride attack? ⌵ The suspect is a 21-year-old named Abdul B., who had previous convictions related to preparing for acts of violence and attempted to join Islamic State in the past. 5 Why is the Berlin Pride attack significant in the context of immigration debates in Germany? ⌵ The incident is expected to intensify discussions about immigration in Germany, as it has fueled support for the far-right Alternative for Germany party amid ongoing societal tensions. "Italy firmly condemns and opposes all forms of hate and extremism. We stand with Germany and the German people. On behalf of the Italian government, I express solidarity and sincere sympathy regarding the distressing news coming from Berlin," Meloni stated on X. Reacting to the attack, Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner mentioned Berlin's freedom was “horrifically violated”. Also Read | Aryna Sabalenka beats Nikola Bartunkova in three-set Berlin Open quarterfinal “Following a peaceful and vibrant Pride parade, the rally for a tolerant and peaceful Berlin was brutally attacked. Berlin is the city of freedom — and our freedom has been horrifically violated today,” he said. Berlin Pride attack suspect Police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Abdul B., following earlier statements that investigators had traced a suspect with alleged links to Islamist groups.