Belgrade, Serbia – A police officer guarding the Israeli embassy in Belgrade was injured by an attacker with a crossbow who was later shot dead, according to the Serbian interior ministry. The incident was described as a terrorist attack by Interior Minister Ivica Dačić.

Dačić stated that the attacker shot the officer in the neck with a bolt before being fatally shot in self-defense. The injured officer was transported to a hospital for surgery to remove the bolt from his neck. The attacker’s identity has yet to be confirmed.

Authorities arrested individuals suspected of being linked to the incident, with Dačić mentioning the possibility of involvement by the Wahhabi organization, a conservative Islamic group. The officer, stationed in a guard house, was approached by the attacker multiple times before the assault took place.

In the midst of Israel’s involvement in Gaza, Serbia has maintained strong ties with the country. The incident at the Israeli embassy underscores the importance of security measures in protecting diplomatic missions.

The attack serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats faced by law enforcement officers and diplomatic personnel around the world. The injured officer’s bravery in defending the embassy highlights the dedication and risk involved in safeguarding diplomatic facilities. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack and work to ensure the safety of embassy staff and personnel.