An explosion struck the US Embassy compound in western Oslo early Sunday, causing minor damage to the entrance of the consular section but resulting in no injuries, Norwegian police reported.

The blast occurred around 1 a.m. local time (0000 GMT) near the public entrance in the Huseby district, prompting a large police response with dogs, drones and a helicopter deployed to the scene. Oslo police spokesperson Mikael Dellemyr stated, “We’ve determined that an explosion hit the American embassy,” noting thick smoke rose from the area. Authorities cordoned off the site and confirmed no further explosive devices were found, declaring the area safe.

Eyewitnesses described a loud bang that shook nearby homes and filled streets with heavy smoke. Anna Gilbo, who was at home, said, “I was watching TV and heard a loud bang while the whole house shook,” adding she saw “a cloud of smoke” from the building. High school student Sebastian Toerstad, driving past, reported “a very thick layer of smoke on the street” and observed damage to the entrance.

Police launched a thorough investigation, hunting for potential perpetrators with considerable resources. Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen called the incident “unacceptable” and said authorities were taking it “very seriously.” Police remained in dialogue with embassy staff but provided no details on the cause or suspects.

The US Embassy referred inquiries to the State Department, which had not commented as of early Sunday. The event unfolded against a backdrop of elevated security at US diplomatic sites worldwide due to escalating conflicts involving Israel and the United States against Iran, including recent attacks on American facilities in Gulf states like Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Officials have not linked the Oslo blast to those incidents.

Norway's police emphasized ongoing searches and coordination with federal agencies. The embassy, located about 7 kilometers outside central Oslo, sustained only limited damage, and no threats to public safety were reported beyond the immediate area.