The Islamic State launched a coordinated series of terrorist attacks in Brussels on March 22 – 2016. This was the capital city of Belgium and of the European Union. The tragic events of this day. Which took place on March 22, 2016. It was among the most deadly in Belgium’s recent history. They had a lasting impact on the country and its people. The attacks on the Maelbeek Metro Station and Brussels Airport in Zaventem resulted in 32 deaths and over 300 injuries. The attacks of that day highlighted the weakness of European cities against terrorism. There was also the urgent need to enhance security measures throughout the continent.

image resource: Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest
Timeline of Events
The attacks started early in the morning. Three attackers, who arrived in a taxi at Brussels Airport around 7:33 am, would cause chaos and destruction. Two explosions occurred almost simultaneously just before 8 am in the airport departure hall. First, a blast was heard near row 11 of the check-in area. A second explosion followed shortly after. Witnesses heard shouts in Arabic moments before the explosions, which were carried out by suicide bombers with large suitcases full of explosives. As travelers escaped the area. They were immediately frightened by the explosions. The explosions caused a lot of confusion and panic. The explosions caused a lot of confusion and made people scared.
Casualties and victims
The airport bombings left a harrowing aftermath. Emergency workers rushed in to help the victims and get people out. The scene was very messy and sad. First responders worked hard to keep everyone safe and help the injured. The damage was clear. The airport in Brussels saw 16 people lose their lives that day.These victims ranged from locals to international travelers. There were victims from many countries including the United States of America, the Netherlands and Sweden. This shows the international nature of the tragedy.
The terror attacks didn’t end at the airport. A third explosion occurred at approximately 9:11 am in the Maelbeek Metro Station, which is located near several important European Union institutions. The attack was especially devastating because it targeted commuters at rush hour, when many people were on their way to work. The bomb detonated in a backpack on a train just leaving Maelbeek Station. The explosion occurred while the train was moving, causing panic among passengers. The driver quickly stopped the train, and began the evacuation process. However, many passengers were injured during the chaos.
The Maelbeek attack resulted in 16 additional deaths, bringing the total death toll on that fateful date to 32. The victims ranged from 20 to 79, and families were shattered. The attackers did not only take lives, but they also left deep psychological scars in the survivors and witnesses. These memories will stay with them for many years.
Background and Context
Understanding the connection between these attacks and previous terrorist acts in Europe is crucial to understanding their broader context. The attackers had ties to a wider network that was linked with previous attacks in Paris, in November 2015. In reality, several of the individuals involved in these attacks were part of a coordinated operation that showed a high-level of planning and execution. Before March 22, Belgian police had raided this group in the course of investigations into extremist activity within their borders. Despite these efforts, there were still significant security gaps that allowed for such tragic events.
National Response
Both Belgian authorities as well as international leaders responded immediately to the bombings. After these bombings, Belgium declared a three-day national mourning period as its citizens struggled to cope with their grief and shock. As a sign of respect to those who died, flags were flown at half-mast throughout the country. To honor the victims and reflect upon the impact of terrorism, a minute of silence was observed across the country.
After the attacks, Belgium increased its terror threat rating to Level 4, indicating a serious risk to public safety. In Brussels and other Belgian cities, enhanced security protocols have been implemented in public transport and at key locations. Authorities increased the police presence in transportation hubs like train stations and airports, while also performing thorough security checks of passengers and luggage.
Impact on Transportation
The Brussels Airport faced major operational challenges in the aftermath of the attacks. The airport suspended air traffic for 12 days while investigators examined the evidence on the scene and ensured safety protocols were in place. Flights resumed on April 3, 2016 after the flights had been reopened. As operations resumed, passengers faced increased security measures including additional screening and luggage restrictions.
Psychological Impact
These attacks left a lasting psychological scar on both survivors and witnesses. Many people who were involved in or witnessed the violence on that day suffered from anxiety and post-traumatic disorder (PTSD). Mental health professionals were working hard to provide support services for victims of the attacks.
Legal Proceedings
Along with the immediate response from the authorities and mental-health services, a legal aspect developed over time regarding those responsible for orchestrating such heinous crimes. Ten men were charged in December 2022 with involvement in the planning and execution of the March 22 attacks. Six defendants have been convicted for murder and attempted-murder in relation to the two bombings. This reflects Belgium’s determination to hold perpetrators responsible for their actions.
The trial was one of the largest criminal cases in Belgium involving terrorism. It served as a significant step towards justice for families who suffered unimaginable losses. Survivors shared their stories in public throughout the process. They did this to bring attention not only to their own personal experiences, but also to broader issues regarding radicalization within society.