Italy tightens security after deadly Christmas market attack in Germany

​​​​​​​By Baris Seckin

ROME (AA) - Italy raised security measures Saturday to the highest following a vehicular attack at a Christmas market in Germany, which killed five victims, according to media reports.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi chaired a strategic counterterrorism meeting in response to the Friday attack to assess the situation and implement heightened security protocols nationwide.

Piantedosi and senior officials evaluated the current security landscape and decided to increase protective measures across all Christmas markets and surrounding areas, as well as at critical tourist hotspots throughout Italy, according to reports.

Under urgent directives from the minister, security forces have been mobilized to ensure heightened vigilance.

Additionally, in Rome, preparations are underway for the opening of the "Jubilee Year" -- a Catholic tradition held every 25 years, which will commence Tuesday.

To bolster security during the event, more than 700 additional security personnel will be deployed to sensitive locations such as Vatican City and critical areas in the capital.

While no direct evidence of an imminent attack on key locations in Italy has been reported, authorities are taking precautionary measures to mitigate the risk of potential lone-wolf actions.

Since the beginning of the year, 82 individuals with suspected terror links have been deported from Italy, officials disclosed.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi in Istanbul