Belgian PM warns of growing terror threat after explosion damages synagogue in Liège

Belgium’s prime minister has warned of a growing terrorism threat in Europe following an explosion that damaged a synagogue in the eastern Belgian city of Liège, an incident that authorities are investigating as a possible antisemitic attack.

The blast occurred in the early hours of the morning outside the synagogue building in the Walloon city, causing structural damage to the entrance and nearby properties. No injuries were reported, as the building was empty at the time.

Federal prosecutors in Belgium quickly took charge of the investigation, which is common when incidents may involve terrorism or hate-motivated crimes. Officials say they are analysing surveillance footage and evidence from the scene while working to identify the person responsible.

The incident has drawn national attention, with Belgium’s leadership highlighting broader concerns about security risks across Europe.

PM raises alarm over potential terror threats

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever addressed the issue in parliament, warning that authorities are increasingly concerned about possible terrorist activity linked to Iranian networks operating internationally.

According to Belgian officials, the country’s intelligence and security services are closely monitoring developments as geopolitical tensions rise in the Middle East. European governments fear that escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States could lead to retaliatory attacks or extremist activity on European soil.

While investigators have not confirmed whether the Liège explosion is directly connected to those wider concerns, the prime minister’s remarks reflect growing anxiety among European security agencies.

Belgium has previously experienced several high-profile extremist incidents. The country remains particularly vigilant because of its central location in Europe and its role as host to major international institutions.

Explosion targets Jewish site in Liège

The explosion took place around 4 a.m, when an explosive device detonated near the entrance of the synagogue. The blast shattered windows and damaged the building’s façade as well as nearby houses.

Police quickly secured the area and forensic investigators began collecting evidence at the scene. Authorities are reviewing security camera footage believed to show a masked individual placing an object near the synagogue shortly before the explosion.

Belgian officials have condemned the attack and described it as an antisemitic act. Security has since been reinforced around Jewish institutions across the country while the investigation continues.

Liège: A historic Walloon city

Liège is the largest city in Belgium’s French-speaking Wallonia region and lies along the River Meuse in the eastern part of the country, near the borders with Germany and the Netherlands.

Historically, the city was governed for centuries by powerful Prince-Bishops who ruled the semi-independent Prince-Bishopric of Liège within the Holy Roman Empire. That legacy helped shape the city’s distinct cultural identity, which still reflects strong Walloon traditions today.

During the 19th century, Liège became one of continental Europe’s earliest industrial centres. Coal mining, steel production and heavy manufacturing transformed the city into an economic powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution.

Today, Liège is known for its universities, lively cultural scene and modern infrastructure. Its landmark Liège-Guillemins railway station, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, serves as a major international rail hub linking Belgium with neighbouring countries.

Investigation still underway

Authorities have not yet announced any arrests, and investigators continue to examine evidence gathered from the site of the explosion.

Officials say the inquiry remains ongoing as Belgium’s security services assess whether the attack was an isolated act or part of a broader threat environment.

For residents of Liège – a city with a long history and diverse population – the incident has prompted renewed focus on community safety while national leaders warn that vigilance against extremism remains essential across Europe.