German prosecutors: Berlin Pride shooter recorded an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State

German prosecutors have confirmed that the suspect believed to be behind the deadly attack during last weekend’s Berlin Pride parade recorded a video in which he pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. The footage was found on his mobile phone, according to prosecutors. The man, identified as 21-year-old German national Abdul Ballut, was killed by police on Sunday after being arrested following the incident. Prosecutors say they believe the video was recorded before the attack, though they did not specify the exact date. Ballut, who had previously been convicted of preparing a serious act of violence threatening state security, was released on bail due to prior criminal record, a decision that has sparked controversy. The attack occurred on Saturday evening when Ballut drove into a crowd gathered in the Tiergarten park near the Brandenburg Gate, killing a woman in her sixties and injuring 29 others. His vehicle struck multiple people, causing chaos in the area. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with emergency services rushing to provide aid while police cordoned off the area. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced on Monday plans to reform the country's security laws in response to the attack. She cited the case as a catalyst for urgent legislative changes aimed at preventing similar incidents. The minister emphasized the need for stricter measures to ensure public safety, particularly in light of the suspect’s history of violent offenses. Ballut’s legal troubles began earlier this year when he was sentenced to prison for planning acts of violence against the state. Despite his conviction, he was granted conditional release, a decision that has drawn criticism from lawmakers and civil rights advocates. They argue that such leniency could pose risks to public safety, especially given the nature of his alleged crimes. Prosecutors have stated that the video, although featuring a masked figure, appears to depict Ballut himself. The content of the video includes a pledge of loyalty to the Islamic State, a move that has raised concerns about potential links to extremist groups. Investigators are currently examining whether there were other individuals involved in the attack or if Ballut acted alone. The incident has reignited debates over Germany’s approach to counterterrorism and the balance between individual freedoms and national security. Some political figures have called for increased surveillance and harsher penalties for those with criminal records. Others have urged caution, emphasizing the importance of due process and the dangers of overreach. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full extent of Ballut’s connections to extremist networks. The discovery of the video has added another layer of complexity to the case, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing both domestic and international threats. The outcome of this case will likely influence future policies and strategies in combating terrorism within Germany.