Serbian Police Neutralize Knife-Wielding Attacker at Israeli Embassy
A knife-wielding assailant was shot dead by Serbian police after attacking an officer at the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade.
The assailant, a minor, attacked while shouting religious phrases.
Authorities have raised the terror threat level following the incident.
No embassy personnel were injured, and the embassy was closed at the time.
In a late-night incident on Wednesday, Serbian police fatally shot a knife-wielding assailant who attacked a guard at the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade. The attack occurred just after midnight when the assailant, reportedly a minor, charged at an officer from an elite police unit, resulting in a swift response that left the attacker dead on the scene.
Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed that the police are treating the assault as a terrorist act. He stated that the attacker, who was armed with two knives and shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during the assault, inflicted a minor facial injury on the officer before being neutralized. Dacic emphasized the need for heightened security measures, raising the terror threat level to its highest point and increasing police presence around key locations in the city.
The Serbian authorities are currently investigating the incident, which has been classified as an attempted terrorist attack. Israel's foreign ministry has acknowledged the situation, confirming that no embassy staff were harmed as the mission was closed at the time of the attack. The assailant reportedly had a history of supporting extremist ideologies, as indicated by his social media activity.
This incident raises concerns about security at diplomatic missions in Serbia, particularly given the recent parliamentary elections that saw significant political shifts in the country. The attack follows a similar incident in June 2024, where another assailant wounded a police officer at the same embassy, highlighting ongoing security challenges.
Looking ahead, authorities will likely continue to monitor potential threats and enhance security protocols at embassies and other sensitive locations. The Serbian government is under pressure to ensure the safety of diplomatic missions, especially as it navigates the aftermath of recent political changes and public unrest.
