Abdul Ballout is the primary suspect in an Islamist terror attack that killed one person and injured 29 during Berlin’s Pride festival.

Abdul Ballout, a 21-year-old German citizen with Lebanese roots, is the primary suspect in an Islamist terror attack that occurred during Berlin’s Pride festival on Saturday night. The administration announced that Ballout drove a white van into a crowd in Tiergarten park near the Brandenburg Gate at approximately 10 p.m., killing one woman and injuring 29 others. Authorities believe Ballout also attacked several people with a machete. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt identified Ballout as a radicalized individual with a history of previous crimes, including a past conviction in Berlin. While the attack occurred just a few hundred meters from the festival's closing party, it took place outside the secure celebration area. The violence prompted the immediate cancellation of the remaining festivities. Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the incident as a "heinous act" and an attack on society. Police warned the public to avoid direct contact with Ballout, as he is considered armed and dangerous. Security measures for future major events in Germany are expected to be reviewed.

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