A prominent German terrorism expert has expressed surprise as more details emerge about the man suspected of carrying out the fatal car-ramming attack in Magdeburg on Friday. The suspect, identified as a 50-year-old Saudi named Taleb A, is believed to have assisted other Saudis in leaving their home country.
Reports from German media indicate that the suspect has been active on social media, where he has allegedly shared anti-Islam sentiments and shown support for the far-right political party AfD (Alternative for Germany).
The terrorism expert, who has been involved in the field for 25 years, admitted that the profile of the suspect was unexpected. The expert mentioned that the idea of a 50-year-old Saudi ex-Muslim residing in East Germany, endorsing the AfD, and seeking retribution against Germany for its perceived leniency towards Islamists was not something that had been anticipated.