Sweden under 'elevated threat' of attack as more people apply to burn Quran

The Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of further demonstrations related to the desecration of the Quran.

Kristersson acknowledged the growing anger among Muslims due to attacks on Islam's holy book in both Sweden and Denmark. The attacks have drawn global condemnation, especiallyfrom Muslim countries like Turkey, whose support is crucial for Sweden's goal of joining US-led NATO amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Quran desecration row: Why Swedish prime minister is worried

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The latest cause of worry is the number ofadditional requests for protests againstthe desecration of the Quran that have been submitted to the police. The prime minister fearsthat if these requests are granted, there could be serious incidents.

"If they are granted, we are going to face some days where there is a clear risk of something serious happening," the Swedish prime minister said. "I am extremely worried about what it could lead to."

Sweden Quran desecration row: Violent demonstrations worldwide

Says after a copy of the Quran was desecrated in Stockholm,the Swedish embassy in Baghdad was stormed and set on fire by protesters.

Recently, Swedish officials, including Kristersson, disclosed that the country had been targeted by a disinformation campaign led by "Russia-backed actors".

The Swedish Security Service (Sapo) maintained a threat level of 3 on a scale of 5, indicating an "elevated threat" during the crisis. The head of Sapo, Charlotte von Essen, stated that there had been a strong reaction to recent events, and Sweden's image had shifted from a tolerant country to an anti-Islamic one.

Also watch |Thousands of Muslims took to the streets to express outrage over Quran desecration in Sweden

Both Denmark and Sweden condemned the burning of the Quran but cited their respect for free speech rules, which prevent them from disallowing such acts.

Sweden accused other countries, particularly Russia, of exploiting the crisis to undermine Sweden's interests and its aspiration to join NATO. The Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström, saidthat the desecrations were committed by individuals within the framework of freedom of speech laws and not endorsed by the Swedish state.

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