In a provocative act that risks further straining relations between Denmark, Sweden, and Iraq, two protesters belonging to a group called "Danish Patriots" set fire to a copy of the Koran, the holy book of Islam, in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen on Monday.

This incident follows the burning of the Koran under the pretext of protecting free speech in Denmark and Sweden, which has triggered widespread protests in Iran and Iraq.

Last week, Danish and Swedish authorities allowed the burning of the Koran citing the protection of free speech, leading to public outrage in Iraq and Iran. Protests erupted across both countries, with demonstrators expressing their condemnation of the disrespectful actions taken in the Nordic countries. The situation escalated further when protesters in Iraq set fire to the Swedish embassy in Baghdad on Thursday, exacerbating tensions in the region.

The Iraqi protest in Baghdad on Saturday drew thousands of people, with the demonstration organized by ruling Iraqi parties and armed groups, many of which have close ties to Iran. The anger and frustration over the perceived desecration of the Koran fueled this large gathering, as protesters voiced their condemnation and demanded action against those responsible for the burning incidents in Denmark and Sweden.

Monday's demonstration in Copenhagen was organized by a group known as "Danish Patriots," which had also carried out a similar protest the previous week and livestreamed the event on Facebook. During the demonstration, the group's organizer not only burned a copy of the Koran but also stomped on it before setting it alight on a tin foil tray placed next to the Iraqi flag on the ground.

In response to the escalating tensions, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement on Saturday, calling for severe punishment for those involved in desecrating the Koran. His remarks further fueled the already charged situation and added to the pressure on Denmark and Sweden to address the issue.

The incident has put the spotlight on the delicate balance between freedom of speech and respecting religious sensitivities. It has also highlighted the need for countries to consider the potential consequences of such actions, especially in regions where religious symbols hold deep significance.

As the situation continues to unfold, authorities in Denmark, Sweden, Iraq, and Iran are closely monitoring developments to prevent further deterioration of relations and to find a resolution to this delicate diplomatic challenge. However, with emotions running high and the involvement of multiple parties, finding a swift and peaceful resolution remains a complex task.