CCTV9英语新闻：Islamic State claims responsibility for Brussels attacks

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for Tuesday's bomb attacks in Brussels that have killed as many as 34 people and injured over 200 others. The blasts went off at the city's airport and one of its metro stations. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel says border controls have been reinforced.

 

"What we feared has happened. Our country and our citizens have been hit by blind, violent and cowardly attacks. We have deployed military reinforcements, we have decided to reinforce border controls and take restrictive measures on transport networks. We realize we face a tragic moment. At this dark moment for our country, now more than ever I would like to appeal to all to be calm and show solidarity. We are confronted with a challenge, a difficult challenge and we must face it by standing united, showing solidarity and staying together," Michel said.

 

Belgium raised its terrorism threat to its highest level after two explosions ripped through the departure area of Zaventem airport on Tuesday morning. Belgian media report that more bombs have been found in the airport.

 

Shortly after the airport explosions, another blast was reported at Maelbeek metro station in Brussels, close to European Union institutions. Belgian federal prosecutor said one of the attacks was probably carried out by a suicide bomber. The airport and the entire public transport system in Brussels are closed. The explosions happened only days after the prime suspect in the November Paris attacks was arrested in Brussels.