TERRORIST GROUPS
Informal Anarchist Federation (FAI) / International Revolutionary Front (FRI)
( AS OF JANUARY 2026 )
OVERVIEW
The Informal Anarchist Federation (FAI) and the International Revolutionary Front (FRI) together comprise an Italian-origin network of anarchist violent extremists who conduct bombing attacks targeting government and business institutions in Europe. FAI claimed its first series of attacks, which targeted European Union officials, in December 2003. In 2011, the group encouraged the development of FRI.
FAI and FRI organize themselves together as an informal network of action groups and individuals. They reject a hierarchical leadership structure in favor of operating as a decentralized network of cells. The network provides encouragement and support for members who take violent actions to destroy state institutions and capital.
OPERATING AREAS
Based primarily in Italy; self-proclaimed affiliates have operated across Europeand in parts of Asia and South America
MEMBERS
Fewer than 300
TACTICS AND TARGETS
FAI/FRI has claimed responsibility for attacks in Italy and other parts of Europe that have targeted government officials and institutions, as well as businesses. Attackers have most commonly used explosive devices that they planted or mailed to targets. In at least one instance, an attacker used a firearm. FAI/FRI has conducted multiple attacks with targets in multiple locations across Europe.
TERRORIST GROUP DESIGNATION
In November 2025, The State Department designated FAI/FRI as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity and foreign terrorist organization.
KEY LEADERS
Alfredo Cospito [DETAINED]
Leader of a cell that claimed responsibility for shooting a nuclear power company’s CEO in 2012; bombed a police cadet barracks in 2006; was detained by Italian authorities in 2012
NOTABLE ATTACKS
7 May 2012
Genoa, Italy
An FAI/FRI operative shoots and injures the CEO of a nuclear power company.
December 2011
Frankfurt, Germany;
Paris, France
FAI/FRI supporters conduct attacks using parcel bombs against the headquarters of a tax collection agency, the central office of a bank, and the Greek Embassy in Paris. The attacks injure one person.
31 March 2011
Athens, Greece;
Livorno, Italy;
Olten, Switzerland
FAI/FRI conducts a series of explosives attacks targeting Italian military barracks, the Swiss nuclear industry association, and a high-security Greek prison. The attacks injure two people.
2 June 2006
Fossano, Italy
FAI/FRI uses two explosive devices to bomb a Carabinieri police academy, inflicting no casualties.
December 2003–January 2004
Bologna, Italy;
Brussels, Belgium;
Manchester, United Kingdom;
The Hague, Netherlands
FAI/FRI supporters in four countries conduct “Operation Santa Claus,” placing and mailing bombs targeting European Union officials and institutions. The bombings inflict no casualties.