An Austrian national accused of having links to a failed terrorist plot targeting a concert by Taylor Swift in Vienna is facing a possible death sentence in Saudi Arabia over a separate attack in Mecca.
The 21-year-old suspect, identified only as Hasan E under Austrian privacy laws, is currently standing trial for an alleged knife attack that took place in Mecca in March 2024. Saudi authorities accuse him of stabbing five people in an attack allegedly inspired by the extremist group ISIS.
According to reports, prosecutors allege that Hasan E was connected to a wider terrorist network that included Beran A, who was convicted over a planned attack targeting Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Vienna, and another suspect identified as Arda K.
Investigators claim the trio discussed carrying out coordinated attacks in Vienna, Istanbul and Dubai. While the alleged plots in Istanbul and Dubai were reportedly abandoned, authorities say the Vienna attack was thwarted before it could be carried out.
The planned attack on Swift’s concert in August 2024 led to the cancellation of the event, affecting an estimated 200,000 fans. Authorities reportedly recovered explosives, knives and documents outlining plans for a mass-casualty attack.
Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia have also examined Hasan E’s alleged relationship with the other members of the network. Prosecutors claim he acted as a mentor to Beran A, who was later sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in the Vienna plot. Arda K received a 12-year prison sentence for his involvement in the extremist cell.
While the other suspects did not carry out any attacks, Saudi prosecutors allege that Hasan E proceeded with his plan in Mecca. He is accused of purchasing a knife from a local market before attacking a security guard near the Grand Mosque and subsequently injuring four other people.
All five victims survived the incident.
Hasan E was arrested on the day of the attack and has remained in custody since March 2024. Efforts by the suspect to secure extradition to Austria have reportedly been unsuccessful.
A verdict in the case is expected soon. The Austrian Foreign Ministry has confirmed that it is providing consular assistance and remains in regular contact with the detained citizen.