Information
French police in Rouen shot and killed an armed man who attempted to set fire to a synagogue early on Friday. The incident began when police were alerted to smoke coming from the synagogue. The assailant, who had used a Molotov cocktail to start a fire, was found on the synagogue’s outer wall, armed with a crowbar and a knife. When he threatened officers, he was shot. The attack caused significant damage to the synagogue, but there were no other casualties. Rouen’s mayor expressed shock and sadness over the attack, emphasizing its impact on the entire city.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin condemned the incident as an antisemitic attack and reassured the Jewish community of ongoing protection. He praised the quick response and bravery of the young police officer who neutralized the threat. The assailant was identified as an Algerian man whose medical stay application in France had been rejected. The attack highlights the broader issue of rising antisemitism in France, particularly following the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. In response to escalating threats, France has raised its alert status to the highest level, emphasizing the need for vigilance and protection of religious sites.
Source: AFP, Reuters, AP
So what
This is just one of an increasing number of attacks against Jewish communities around the globe. Earlier this week, red hand graffiti was painted onto France’s Holocaust Memorial, an act described by President Emmanuel Macron as “odious antisemitism.” It is highly likely that these attacks will continue during Israel’s offensive into Rafah, and possibly into the medium term after combat operations slow down. Due to the rise in threat against the Jewish community, it is possible we will see private security in areas populated with Jewish people, possibly leading to more confrontations.
Follow us to join the intelligence community!