Get Guardian on GoogleAn explosion shook the US embassy in Oslo, Norway, in the early hours of Sunday, causing what local authorities described as “minor material damage.”
The blast comes amid heightened tensions at US diplomatic missions worldwide following escalating hostilities between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Several US diplomatic facilities in Gulf countries hosting American troops have recently been targeted by Iranian retaliatory strikes, including in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
According to Oslo police, the cause of the blast, which occurred around 1 a.m. local time, is not yet immediately known. The explosion affected the entry to the compound’s consular section. Authorities said investigators were examining the scene and deploying resources to search for one or more potential perpetrators.
“Police view such incidents in public spaces as very serious and are investigating the case with substantial resources and high priority,” the statement said.
Police Commander Michael Dellemyr told local TV stations that officials would not disclose details about the type of damage or the nature of the explosion, but confirmed that investigators had an idea of the cause and that it may have been intentionally carried out.
Authorities are also speaking with witnesses to gather additional information as the investigation continues.
