Hand Grenade Explodes outside Norwegian Ambassador’s Residence in Israel

A hand grenade exploded outside the residence of the Norwegian ambassador to Israel on Thursday evening, in an incident that has sparked strong condemnation and prompted an immediate investigation by Israeli authorities.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed the incident via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that he had spoken directly with Norway’s ambassador to Israel, Per Egil Selvaag, following the attack. The explosive device was thrown into the courtyard of the ambassador’s residence in Tel Aviv, but no injuries were reported.

Sa’ar described the incident as a grave and shocking crime, emphasising the seriousness of targeting diplomatic premises.

In Oslo, Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the explosion at the ambassador’s residence in an official statement sent via email to Reuters. The ministry noted that no embassy staff were harmed in the blast, although it did not specify the cause of the explosion.

Israeli police reported that only minor property damage occurred and that a formal investigation into the attack is now underway. Authorities have yet to announce any suspects or motives.