The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan voiced strong condemnation after reports that religious scriptures were burned in Sweden. It described the act as an attack on faith that cannot be excused as a matter of free expression. The ministry warned that actions rooted in religious hatred undermine interfaith trust and disrupt public order in both Sweden and other countries.
The protests focused on the burning of pages from sacred texts that some participants viewed as a protest against censorship or perceived disrespect toward Islam. Reports describe the incident taking place during Eid al-Adha, a major Muslim holiday. Allegedly, a person tore pages from the Qur’an, used them as a surface for feet, and set some alight while onlookers watched. Security forces were on scene, with police keeping a perimeter to manage the gathering.
Earlier, another demonstration at the Israeli Embassy in Stockholm involved the burning of the Torah and Bible. Some described the act as freedom of expression, while authorities cautioned that it risked inflaming tensions. The event occurred under police supervision, though details about the sequence and whether the burning was completed differ in reports.
During the incident, organizers reportedly produced a lighter and announced in Swedish that they were Muslim and would not burn anything. Eyewitnesses interpreted the gesture as a dramatic statement about intent and responsibility in the protest, while observers noted the attention from reporters and onlookers. The scene underscored how emotionally charged such actions can be and the polarized responses they provoke.
Commentators from various international actors urged restraint and emphasized the need to avoid actions that could inflame religious sensitivities. A spokesperson for a major foreign ministry highlighted that burning sacred texts without careful consideration could carry serious diplomatic and security consequences. The episode highlights ongoing debates about balancing freedom of expression with respect for deeply held religious beliefs and the responsibilities that come with public demonstrations in pluralistic societies as reflected in official statements from multiple governments.