Knife-Wielding Attacker Shot Dead Outside Israeli Embassy in Belgrade

UPDATE - follow-up to Policeman kills knife attacker outside Israeli embassy in Serbia: An unknown attacker armed with two knives wounded a policeman guarding the Israeli embassy in Belgrade before the officer shot the assailant dead.

What Happened

Outgoing Interior Minister Ivica Dacic stated that the minor rushed at a Gendarmerie officer while shouting religious phrases and carrying two blades. The Belgrade-based Higher Public Prosecution Office reported that the black-clad suspect opened the guard house door and threw a knife that struck officer D.S. in the left cheek. The policeman then used his service weapon to fire several shots, killing the assailant immediately. Authorities classified the officer's actions as justified self-defence, and an active investigation remains underway.

Official Response

Minister Dacic raised Serbia's national security threat level to red, which is the highest possible tier. Police presence has been stepped up significantly at critical locations across the city as a precaution.

Context

This incident marks the second violent attack targeting the Israeli embassy in Belgrade within a span of two years, following a prior incident involving a crossbow attack in June 2024. The event coincides with a period of political transition in Serbia, as a caretaker administration currently remains in office following a recent national election.