French authorities have launched a terrorism investigation following an arson attack on a synagogue in the town of La Grande Motte, near Montpellier. The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning, resulted in injuries to a police officer and significant damage to the synagogue complex.
According to the National Antiterrorism Prosecutor's Office, two cars parked at the Beth Yaacov synagogue were set ablaze, with additional fires discovered at two entrances to the building. Fortunately, five individuals present at the synagogue, including the rabbi, escaped unharmed.
The attack is being treated as an attempted assassination linked to a terrorist group, as well as destruction of property with dangerous means. Investigators are currently searching for a suspect believed to be responsible for the incident.
City officials in La Grande Motte are reviewing surveillance footage in an effort to identify the lone suspect seen at the scene of the attack. The individual, who reportedly carried a Palestinian flag and a weapon, did not manage to enter the synagogue despite clear intentions to do so.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack as a terrorist act and assured the public that efforts are underway to apprehend the perpetrator. Acting Prime Minister Gabriel Attal also denounced the incident as an antisemitic attack, expressing outrage and vowing to protect Jewish places of worship.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has ordered increased police presence at Jewish sites across the country in response to the surge of antisemitism following recent events in the Middle East. Authorities are working diligently to prevent further acts of violence and ensure the safety of all citizens.
