US Embassy in Oslo Targeted in Bombing, Three Brothers Arrested

Oslo, Norway – Three Norwegian citizens of Iraqi origin have been arrested in connection with an explosion that occurred at the U.S. Embassy in Oslo on Sunday. The incident, which caused minor damage to the embassy’s consular section, has prompted a high-priority investigation involving Norwegian police, security services, and collaboration with U.S. Authorities, including the FBI.

Details of the Arrests and Investigation

The three suspects, all brothers in their 20s, were taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon, according to a statement by police prosecutor Christian Hatlo CBS News. They are suspected of “terrorist bombing” under Section 138 of the Norwegian Penal Code Oslo Police District. Police believe one of the brothers placed the bomb, although the other two assisted in the act.

Authorities stated that the men were not previously known to police CBS News and BBC News. The investigation is ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the brothers acted alone or as part of a larger network.

Possible Motives and International Connections

Investigators are exploring several hypotheses, including the possibility that the bombing was ordered by a foreign government entity CBS News. This consideration stems from the target – the U.S. Embassy – and the current global security landscape.

Norwegian security service PST has identified Iran as a main threat to the country and suggested it could utilize intermediaries, including criminal networks, to achieve its objectives BBC News. However, Iran’s ambassador to Oslo has denied any involvement in the bombing.

Online Activity and Evidence

Police are also investigating a video that was briefly uploaded to the U.S. Embassy’s Google Maps page around the time of the incident. The video featured the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s former supreme leader, and a message written in Persian stating, “God is great. We are winners” BBC News.

Security Measures and Response

Following the explosion, Norwegian police reinforced security measures in Oslo and increased their presence around the U.S. Embassy. Security was also heightened to protect the Iranian diaspora and Jewish communities in Norway CBS News. Authorities have stated there are currently no indications of a lingering threat.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains in its early stages, and police have not ruled out further arrests Oslo Police District. Oslo Police District is collaborating closely with PST, Kripos (the National Criminal Investigation Service), and U.S. Authorities, including the FBI, to establish the motive and determine if others were involved.