Belgian authorities are investigating a pre-dawn explosion at a synagogue in the eastern city of Liège, an incident that has heightened concerns about possible Iran-linked terrorist
activity across Europe.
The blast occurred around 4 a.m. on Monday at a historic synagogue in the city. According to investigators, security camera footage shows a masked individual placing a burning object at the building’s entrance before walking away shortly before it detonated. The explosion shattered windows and caused structural damage, though no injuries were reported.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever addressed the incident in parliament on Thursday, warning lawmakers that European intelligence agencies have been monitoring what he described as “terror cells directed by Iran.” He emphasized that Belgian security services remain vigilant as the investigation continues.
Belgium’s federal prosecutor is leading the probe and is currently examining video material believed to have connections to a jihadist organization. Authorities are also assessing whether the attack may have ties to Iranian networks operating abroad.
The incident comes at a time of heightened tension in Europe amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Security officials say the geopolitical crisis could inspire retaliatory or ideologically motivated attacks on European soil.
Experts note that threats may come from several directions. Some incidents are carried out by so-called “lone actors” motivated by personal grievances or extremist propaganda. Others may involve coordinated networks or operations linked to foreign states.
Annelies Pauwels, a researcher at the Flemish Peace Institute, told VRT NWS that potential state-linked networks represent “an additional layer of threat.” In some cases, individuals already living in Europe could be approached or encouraged to carry out attacks locally.
Recent arrests have further fueled concerns. Belgian police detained two people of Iranian origin in the city of Sint-Truiden after they allegedly made threats about carrying out an attack. Investigators have not yet determined whether the suspects were connected to a broader network.
Suspicions about Iranian-linked plots in Europe are not new.In 2018, Belgian authorities foiled a plan to bomb a gathering of Iranian opposition groups near Paris. Several individuals were convicted in the case, including an Iranian diplomat accused of coordinating the plot.
Following the Liège explosion, Belgian politicians have renewed calls for stronger protection of Jewish communities. Georges-Louis Bouchez has proposed appointing a national coordinator to combat antisemitism, while Interior Minister Bernard Quintin has suggested deploying soldiers to guard sensitive sites in major cities.
Across Europe, Jewish institutions have reported a rise in threats and attacks since 2023. Counter-terrorism analysts warn that escalating tensions in the Middle East are contributing to radicalization and increasing security risks for Jewish communities throughout the continent. Photo by Ralf Houven, Wikimedia commons.