Police in Norway are investigating the overnight explosion outside the US Embassy in the capital as a possible deliberate attack. Law enforcement officials announced this at a press conference on Sunday.
The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. local time on March 8 at the entrance to the consular section of the American diplomatic mission in western Oslo. According to police, an explosive device was used, causing minor damage to the building and filling the area with thick smoke. There were no injuries.
“Given the current security situation, it is natural to view this as a targeted attack on the US embassy,” said Frode Larsen, head of investigations at the Oslo police department. He noted that terrorism is one of the leading theories, although other motives are being considered.
Police are actively searching for one or more suspects, using sniffer dogs, drones, and helicopters. The investigation is ongoing at the scene, and the area has been cordoned off.
The US Embassy in Oslo confirmed the explosion and expressed gratitude to Norwegian authorities for their prompt response and cooperation. There has been no official comment from Washington regarding a possible connection between the incident and events in the region. The investigation is ongoing, and there is no new information about those detained or motives yet.