BERLIN, April 20 (UPI) -- As Germany increasingly faces gridlock over terrorism, U.S. authorities in Berlin have tightened security.
"We are taking these steps in response to a heightened threat situation," the U.S. Embassy in Berlin said Friday on its Web site. "The U.S. Embassy encourages Americans in Germany to increase their vigilance and take appropriate steps to bolster their own personal security."
German Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble has in the past weeks repeatedly warned of an increased terror threat in Germany, especially after video threats from Islamist groups and the abduction of two Germans in Iraq.
Yet this time, the anger seems to be directed at Americans.
The German Interior Ministry published a statement on its Web site, claiming the U.S. warning was sparked by "evidence that U.S. institutions in Germany might be exposed to an increased danger." Germany's security agencies were "sharing this concern and for a long time have most closely cooperated with the U.S. side to ensure that all appropriate measures in this context are taken."
