Berlin Boosts Security Amid Terror Fears

Fears of a potential terror attack are overshadowing festivities to mark the anniversary of German reunification. Security around the Brandenburg Gate is tight with increased police presence. The capital's interior minister, meanwhile, urged Berliners to be "increasingly vigilant." Berlin's police force is on high alert. Following a series of al-Qaida propaganda videos directly threatening Germany, officials have beefed up security around the festivities to mark German reunification.

He urged "increased vigilance" during the public event but also warned people not to panic, saying that although the risk of attack had climbed in recent weeks, police had no evidence of an imminent plot. However, officials fear the celebrations taking place around the Brandenburg Gate could be a target given the site's symbolic value and the high number of visitors expected.