Oslo – An explosion struck the US embassy in Oslo in the early hours of Sunday morning, causing minor material damage to one of the building’s entrances but resulting in no injuries, Norwegian police confirmed.
The blast was reported around 1:00 AM local time (0000 GMT) . Oslo police stated in a release that they are treating the incident with the utmost seriousness, deploying significant resources to investigate.
“Police view such incidents in public spaces as very serious, and are investigating the case with substantial resources and high priority,” the statement read.
Manhunt Underway
Authorities have launched a search for potential perpetrators, utilizing dogs, drones, and helicopters in the operation. Investigators remain at the scene to gather forensic evidence and analyze the damage.
Police Commander Michael Dellemyr told TV2 that while the investigation is in its very early stages, they have formed an initial theory. “It appears to us that this is an act carried out by someone,” he stated, though he declined to comment on specific details regarding the type of explosive used.
Several hours after the blast, police declared the area around the embassy “safe” for residents and passersby. They are appealing to the public for any tips or unusual observations from the vicinity between midnight and 2:00 AM.
Witness Accounts
Residents living near the embassy described a frightening scene. A 16-year-old identified as Edvard told TV2 that he and his mother initially thought the explosion came from inside their own home before noticing the heavy police presence.
“There were police dogs and drones and police with automatic weapons and helicopters in the air,” he recounted.
Three friends waiting for a taxi nearby told the same broadcaster they felt the ground shake from three distinct “bangs.” Kristian Wendelborg Einung described driving past the scene to find the street covered in an unusual, thick “blanket of smoke.”
No Immediate Link to Global Conflict
The attack comes at a time of extreme tension, as US embassies across the Middle East remain on high alert following American military strikes in Iran. Several diplomatic missions in the Gulf have faced direct attacks as part of the widening conflict.
However, Police Commander Dellemyr urged caution, stating, “We’re not connecting it to the conflict. It’s far too early for that.”
The investigation is ongoing, and police are maintaining open communication with the US embassy regarding the incident.
