New Year's Eve terror threat prompts major cities to cancel celebratory events

Cities worldwide have cancelled major New Year's Eve celebrations following heightened terrorist threat warnings. Sydney Harbour fireworks display was cancelled on December 28, 2025, after Australian authorities disrupted a terrorist plot targeting the event. Paris cancelled its traditional Champs-Élysées celebration and restricted public gatherings near key landmarks including the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Tokyo cancelled its iconic Times Square countdown event and restricted access to popular gathering spots like Shibuya Crossing. These measures follow intelligence reports indicating potential ISIS-affiliated attacks during crowded holiday events. Security forces have been placed on high alert across affected cities, with increased police presence and surveillance at remaining public venues.