Sweden: Increased security around synagogues from December 11

Event

In the wake of an attempted firebombing targeting a Gothenburg synagogue, police officials have announced that an increased security presence will be deployed around synagogues and other Jewish cultural centers across the country beginning on Monday, December 11. Security measures could include road closures, security checkpoints, and a visibly reinforced police presence; associated transportation disruptions are possible.

Police are reacting to an incident in Gothenburg on Saturday, December 9, in which around ten people reportedly threw petrol bombs at a local synagogue, setting fire to the building’s lawn. No injuries or damage to the building were reported. Police have arrested three suspects, but have not disclosed a possible motive for the attack.

Context

The incident occurred days after demonstrations in Stockholm and Malmö in opposition to US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. During the demonstration in Malmö on Friday, December 8, some participants reportedly threatened to carry out acts of anti-Semitic violence.

On Wednesday, December 6, President Trump announced that the US would officially recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and begin making preparations to move the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The announcement marks a major departure from the longstanding US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city, which is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians; no country currently has an embassy in Jerusalem. Various world leaders had strongly advised the US administration against the move, claiming it would render impossible the establishment of a Palestinian state and would inflame tensions across the Muslim world. Numerous protests have been reported across the globe in the days since the announcement.

Advice

Individuals in Sweden are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or activity to the police.