Following a car bomb attack in Belfast, MI5 is employing a unique counter-terrorism strategy. The agency is sending personalized video messages to suspected New IRA associates, mirroring the popular Spotify Wrapped format, to encourage them to abandon violence and consider alternative paths.

Innovative Approach to Counter-Terrorism

British security services are utilizing innovative tactics to dissuade members of the New IRA from continuing their violent activities. MI5, the UK’s domestic intelligence agency, has begun sending these suspected associates one-minute video messages.

Content of the Video Messages

These reels compile news snippets detailing the consequences of the New IRA’s actions – including police raids, criminal convictions, and the detrimental impact on communities. The videos directly question whether these outcomes align with the individuals’ intentions, posing the question: “Is this what you want done in your name? There are better paths to take.”

Recent Attack and Threat Level

The recent incident involved a hijacked car containing a ‘gas cylinder-type device’ detonated around 10:50 pm on Saturday in Dunmurry, a southwest suburb of Belfast. The explosion prompted the evacuation of local residents, including two infants, and scattered debris across the street.

This attack follows a similar, albeit unsuccessful, bombing attempt in Lurgan weeks prior, both claimed by the New IRA. The security threat level in Northern Ireland is currently assessed as ‘substantial,’ indicating a likely imminent attack, though authorities emphasize the danger is persistent rather than escalating.

Building on Previous Warnings

MI5’s approach builds upon earlier warnings issued last year, threatening financial sanctions against those involved in fundraising for the organization. Texts sent to suspected fundraisers emphasized the lack of anonymity and the potential repercussions for themselves, their families, and the wider community, offering assistance to those willing to disengage.

Targeting Internal Doubt

The video messages, containing news articles from 2025, highlight the group’s involvement in activities like bomb attacks, drug trafficking, and extortion, particularly targeting vulnerable individuals. They also subtly criticize the leadership, suggesting they prioritize personal gain over the well-being of their followers.

The messaging aims to create internal doubt and encourage self-reflection among those involved. Sir Ken McCallum, Director-General of MI5, previously stated the agency’s commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities.

Investigation and Condemnation

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched an attempted murder investigation, and Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton believes the Dunmurry bombing is likely the work of the New IRA. Political leaders across the spectrum have condemned the attack, with Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill asserting that those responsible do not represent the views of the population.

About the New IRA

The New IRA represents a faction of dissident republicans who reject the 1998 Good Friday Agreement and continue to advocate for a united Ireland through violent means. The use of social media-style messaging represents a novel approach to counter-terrorism, attempting to reach individuals on a personal level and offer an alternative to violence.