By Trend News Line 2024-06-29 15:56:15.
**Terror Attack in Belgrade: Man Shot Dead After Crossbow Attack on Israeli Embassy Guard**
A man has tragically lost his life after launching a terrifying attack on a police officer guarding the Israeli embassy in Belgrade. The suspect, identified as a 25-year-old Serbian who had converted to Islam, approached the officer with a crossbow in hand, leading to a deadly confrontation.
**The Attack**
The shocking incident unfolded on a Saturday morning when the assailant approached the police officer stationed outside the embassy’s guard house. In a chilling turn of events, he asked the officer about the location of a museum before pulling out a crossbow and firing at the officer’s neck.
**Police Response**
In a bid to defend himself, the officer had no choice but to use his weapon, resulting in the fatal shooting of the attacker. The officer was left gravely injured, with the bolt lodged in his neck, and was rushed to the hospital for urgent surgery. Miraculously, no other individuals were harmed during the terrifying ordeal.
**Investigation and Motives**
Interior Minister Ivica Dačić swiftly labelled the incident as a “terrorist attack against Serbia,” sparking a thorough investigation into the attacker’s background and possible ties to extremist groups. Another individual was apprehended near the scene, prompting authorities to delve deeper into the suspect’s network.
**Suspect’s Background**
The deceased attacker, a young Serbian man who had embraced Islam, raised concerns about potential motives related to terrorism. Mr Dačić hinted at the suspect’s association with the hard-line Islamist movement known as the Wahhabi movement, although further verification is yet to be confirmed.
**Heightened Security Measures**
In the wake of the attack, security measures across Belgrade were promptly elevated, encompassing not only foreign embassies and governmental premises but also public spaces like shopping centres. The swift response aimed to reassure the public and prevent any further threats to safety.
**Israeli Embassy’s Response**
A spokesperson from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the attempted terrorist attack in the vicinity of the embassy, highlighting the swift actions taken to ensure the safety of embassy staff. The closure of the embassy was a precautionary measure to safeguard personnel.
**International Relations**
Situated in an upscale district near the US Embassy, Israel’s diplomatic mission in Belgrade has been a focal point of close ties between Serbia and Israel, particularly during tumultuous periods like the conflict in Gaza. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges faced by security forces in safeguarding diplomatic missions.
As investigations continue and security remains heightened, the tragic loss of life in this brazen attack underscores the ongoing threats posed by terrorism and the vigilance required to counter such acts of violence..
– Man shot dead in Belgrade after police officer hit with crossbow outside Israeli embassy
– Belgrade police officer hit with crossbow outside Israeli embassy, man shot dead.