Troops take to Belgian streets to guard against attacks
BRUSSELS - Belgium is deploying hundreds of troops to guard possible terrorism targets, including Jewish sites and diplomatic missions, following deadly raids on an Islamist cell, the defense minister said on Saturday.
Up to 300 military will be stationed at locations such as the US and Israeli embassies in Brussels and NATO and EU institutions.
"It's very important to say that this wasn't a simple decision, but it was necessary, at a time when police are overly engaged, for the army to enter in a supporting role," Defense Minister Steven Vandeput told reporters.
Troops will reinforce police at least until Thursday, when authorities will review the national threat level, set at 3 on a scale of 4 this week.
