A grenade was thrown at the residence of Norway’s ambassador in Israel, located in Herzliya near Tel Aviv, on Sunday evening. The attack caused material damage but no injuries, according to initial reports from Israeli journalist Or Ravid and later confirmed by Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Utenriksdepartementet).
Residence of Per Egil Selvaag targeted
The incident occurred at the official residence of Ambassador Per Egil Selvaag, a senior Norwegian diplomat stationed in Israel. The explosion was confirmed by the Norwegian foreign ministry, which stated that all staff were unharmed. Communication Director Tuva Bogsnes emphasized in an email to the Norwegian press agency NTB that “the safety of our employees is our highest priority.”
Investigation underway, motive still unknown
Israeli police were dispatched to the scene shortly after the attack and have launched an investigation. The perpetrators and motive remain unknown. There are no indications that any group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
In a statement on social media platform X (former Twitter), Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the attack, expressing confidence that Israeli authorities will “act decisively to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face the full force of the law.”
Embassy temporarily closed amid rising tensions
Following the attack and the worsening security situation in the region, the Norwegian embassy in Tel Aviv has temporarily closed. The move reflects increasing concerns for diplomatic staff safety in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
This incident adds to a series of recent security threats faced by foreign diplomatic missions in Israel, underlining the volatility of the current geopolitical climate.
