Two predawn explosions rocked the area near the Israeli Embassy in Copenhagen early Wednesday, concerning police and the Jewish community alike. Although no injuries occurred, the blasts led to heightened security measures and the temporary closure of nearby Jewish institutions.Investigators have arrested three Swedish nationals, aged between 15 and 20, suspected of involvement with the explosions, which might have been caused by hand grenades, according to Copenhagen police spokesperson Jens Jespersen. One suspect was caught near the embassy, whereas the others were apprehended on a train at the city's central station. Initial reports indicated preliminary charges primarily related to illegal weapons possession, but other charges are expected as the investigation progresses.
The explosions took place at approximately 3:20 AM, just 100 meters from the Israeli Embassy situated among other diplomatic missions. Although the exact target of the blasts remains unclear, police and local authorities are exploring all angles. Jespersen stated, "Our investigation shows the blasts likely were caused by hand grenades," but he declined to speculate about the motives behind the attack.
The nearby Carolineskolen, a Jewish school located just down the street from the embassy, was already set for closure due to the Jewish New Year holidays this week. Community leaders have called for increased awareness and vigilance during public gatherings, with added security measures planned at the main synagogue and throughout the city.
Denmark’s Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard labeled the incident “inherently serious,” emphasizing the urgency of the investigation without providing additional information on the possible motives. He noted, “It is too early to say anything about a motive,” as the investigation continues to gather evidence.
The Copenhagen incident is mirrored by another unsettling occurrence across the Øresund Strait, where the Israeli Embassy in Stockholm was shot at during the same timeframe. Local authorities confirmed the incident late Tuesday evening, stating gunfire directed at the embassy resulted in damage, but no injuries were reported. Reports indicated police recovered evidence, including empty shell casings and other items hinting at criminal activity aimed at the embassy.
Rebecca Landsberg, spokesperson for the Stockholm police, remarked, "We’ve made finds indicating shooting at Israel’s embassy, but we will not disclose exactly what these finds are due to the active investigation.” Swedish media reported, echoing their Danish counterparts, about the possible involvement of violent criminal networks, especially relating to previous warnings from Sweden's domestic security agency, SAPO, concerning threats against Israeli and Jewish targets.
These incidents have amplified fears within the Jewish communities of both Denmark and Sweden, as they have already seen significant spikes in antisemitic attacks following the recent conflict escalations related to the situation in Gaza. Both governments have publicly acknowledged the uptick as dangerously alarming. Late last year, these same communities feared for their safety as antisemitic incidents had reached levels not observed since World War II. June witnessed similar reports from both countries, leading to calls for heightened protective measures around Jewish institutions.
The recent escalation of violence, including reported use of grenades discovered on embassy grounds and prior criminal activity targeting Jewish individuals, has left many questioning their safety. Henri Goldstein, head of the Danish Jewish community, previously noted, "We have seen violent escalation, not least fueled by the uncontrolled spread of hatred on social media."
Goldstein and members of other Jewish organizations have expressed their dismay and fear; many worry about the outcomes of the incidents.
Recent discoveries of explosive objects and gunfire directed at Jewish sites have now led security forces to carefully surveil all related incidents, corroborated by heightened police presence around embassies and community centers.
The Israeli Embassy issued a statement expressing its shock over the events, reaffirming their trust in Danish authorities to carry out thorough investigations. Meanwhile, the diplomatic representatives are working closely with both the Danish and Swedish police, ensuring their personnel's safety and collaborating with increased vigilance against future threats.
Overall, both incidents occurring within such close proximity raise urgent questions concerning safety, geopolitical tensions, and the well-being of communities connected to Israel and Judaism amid the continuing unrest. Observers and community members across both nations remain on high alert, reflecting on the precarious balance between ensuring safety and fostering community engagement during tumultuous times.
