The U.S. Embassy in Oslo was rocked by an explosion early on Sunday morning. The incident occurred around 1 AM local time, causing minor material damage but leaving no casualties. Authorities are treating the explosion as a potential act of terrorism and are currently investigating the incident.
Investigation Details
Frode Larsen, head of the joint investigation unit, spoke to NRK during a press conference. He confirmed that while terrorism is one of the possible explanations, investigators are keeping other causes open as well. The explosion specifically impacted the entrance of the consular section of the embassy.
Authorities’ Response
- The police deployed drones, dogs, and helicopters to hunt for potential suspects.
- Oslo police characterized the incident as “unacceptable.”
- Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide assured that they are in contact with U.S. officials.
- The investigation is being carried out in collaboration with Norway’s domestic security service, PST.
The threat level in Norway has remained at three on a scale of five since November 2024. Martin Bernsen, spokesperson for the PST, mentioned that there had been no specific threats made against U.S. interests in the country prior to the explosion.
Witness Accounts
Local residents reported hearing multiple loud bangs that shook the ground. A 16-year-old resident named Edvard described how he and his mother initially thought the noise came from their own home. Upon looking outside, they saw police lights flashing and officers responding to the scene.
Another witness, Kristian Wendelborg Einung, recounted hearing three distinct “bangs.” He and his friends noticed a thick cloud of smoke surrounding the embassy as they waited for a taxi nearby. They arrived on the scene before the police, describing the atmosphere as very tense.
Hours after the explosion, police confirmed that the area around the embassy was secured for both residents and passersby. This incident has heightened vigilance across U.S. embassies worldwide, particularly in the Middle East, where recent tensions have escalated.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on determining the motive behind the blast. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
