Two explosions struck Brazil’s Supreme Court on Wednesday evening, causing the death of one individual and prompting an immediate evacuation of justices and staff. The blasts, which occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. local time, came shortly after the day’s court session had ended.
The court issued a statement confirming the intensity of the explosions, but reassured the public that all personnel had been safely evacuated. Authorities reported one fatality at the scene, though the identity of the victim remains undisclosed.
Witnesses described a brief 20-second interval between the two explosions, which occurred in the Three Powers Plaza in Brasília. This iconic location houses not only the Supreme Court but also Brazil’s Congress and presidential palace.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was not present at the presidential palace at the time of the attack. A spokesperson confirmed that security forces were actively securing the area, with police cordoning off the site. Federal authorities have launched an investigation into the explosions, though the exact motive remains unknown.
The Supreme Court has been a frequent target of threats, particularly from far-right factions and supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro. The court’s efforts to tackle disinformation have drawn significant opposition, with Justice Alexandre de Moraes becoming a focal point for these groups.
In the aftermath of the explosions, political leaders from across Brazil’s spectrum voiced their support for the Supreme Court, condemning the violence and calling for national unity. Authorities have pledged to enhance security measures around critical government buildings, with a thorough investigation into the attacks still ongoing.
In addition to the explosions at the Supreme Court, another blast was reported outside Brazil’s Congress, though it caused minimal damage. Law enforcement officials are now exploring the possibility that the two incidents may be connected as part of a broader attempt to destabilize the country’s political system.
The attacks have prompted concerns over the escalating political tension and polarization in Brazil. Many experts believe the explosions may signal the rise of radicalized factions, which have grown increasingly vocal in their opposition to the government’s actions. The incidents have raised important questions about the safety of government institutions and the need for stronger protective measures in the face of rising political violence.
As the investigation progresses, Brazilian authorities are examining whether these explosions are part of a coordinated assault against the country’s political framework. The nation now finds itself grappling with heightened security risks and the broader challenge of addressing deepening ideological divides that threaten the stability of the government.
