Police in Berlin have confirmed envelopes containing a white powder were sent to the American and Israeli embassies in the German capital.

Police spokeswoman Kerstin Ismer would not confirm whether or not the powder was a dangerous substance, according to the AP news agency.

Two investigations are underway on suspicion of disturbing the peace by threatening a crime.

The Israeli Embassy received its letter on Tuesday July 24, while the US Embassy’s envelope arrived two days later.

It was not clear if the two were connected or whether any suspects were being sought.

Neither embassy had any immediate comment, saying in general they do not comment on security issues, AP said.

White powder is occasionally used as a hoax by anti-Israel demonstrators wanting to suggest the use of dangerous substances like anthrax.

The Israeli Embassy in London received an envelope in the post containing a similar substance in 2008. It was susbequently found to be harmless.