Swedish prosecutors have announced that two men will be put on trial for desecrating the Holy Quran in a series of incidents last year. These incidents sparked outrage in the Muslim world and raised concerns about potential attacks.

The two men are accused of committing “offences of agitation against an ethnic or national group” on four separate occasions when they desecrated the Holy Quran outside a mosque and in other public places. Their actions prompted Sweden’s domestic security service to raise its terrorism alert level. Neighboring Denmark, which also experienced similar incidents, tightened its legislation to outlaw such practices.

Senior Prosecutor Anna Hankkio stated that the men are being prosecuted for making statements and treating the Quran in a manner intended to express contempt for Muslims because of their faith. Evidence against the men includes video recordings.

One of the accused, Salwan Najem, denied any wrongdoing. His lawyer, Mark Safaryan, argued that his client’s actions were covered by the permit granted for the demonstration and protected by the Swedish constitution.

The lawyer for the other accused, Salwan Momika, did not respond to requests for comment.

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This case highlights the sensitive nature of religious symbols and the potential for their desecration to incite violence and unrest. It also raises questions about the balance between freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs.

The outcome of the trial will be closely watched by both the Muslim community and those concerned about freedom of expression in Sweden.