In response to the recent deadly attack outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has issued a directive to regional authorities to intensify security measures around sites linked to the Jewish community across France.
The move comes amid growing concerns over antisemitic violence in Europe’s country with the largest Jewish population. Retailleau’s order, conveyed through a telegram dated May 22 to local prefects, calls for security measures that are both “visible and deterrent.”
These enhanced protections will include increased police patrols and the establishment of permanent guard posts at key locations. The minister emphasized that safeguarding synagogues, Jewish schools, cultural institutions, media offices, and businesses must be a national priority.
To support these efforts, the French government plans to bolster the presence of soldiers already deployed under Operation Sentinelle, France’s ongoing domestic anti-terror mission.
Operation Sentinelle troops, widely seen patrolling public spaces and sensitive sites since the rise of Islamist terrorist attacks, will now be more active at Jewish sites to reassure communities and deter potential attackers.
Retailleau also instructed prefects to work closely with judicial authorities, including local prosecutors, to oversee security procedures such as identity checks, bag inspections, and vehicle searches. These actions are to be conducted strictly according to judicial protocols to ensure both security and respect for civil liberties.
The heightened alert in France follows a violent incident in Washington, D.C., where two staff members of the Israeli Embassy were killed outside the Jewish Museum during a reception hosted by the American Jewish Committee.
The suspect, who police say acted alone, was arrested after reportedly shouting pro-Palestinian slogans. The attack occurred near the U.S. Capitol, spotlighting the vulnerability of Jewish institutions even in major global capitals.
French President Emmanuel Macron responded swiftly to the attack, condemning it as an “antisemitic attack” and extending his condolences to Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Macron expressed his thoughts for the families and loved ones of the victims, reaffirming France’s commitment to fighting antisemitism in all its forms.
The attack and France’s reaction underscore ongoing concerns about the rise of antisemitism both in Europe and worldwide.
France has experienced a series of antisemitic incidents in recent years, ranging from verbal harassment to violent assaults, which have sparked widespread alarm among the Jewish community and human rights organizations.
Experts warn that the global conflict in the Middle East often exacerbates tensions and triggers local outbreaks of antisemitic violence, making proactive security and community outreach vital.
By increasing visible security measures and ensuring coordination between police and judicial authorities, France aims to protect its Jewish citizens and send a clear message that hate crimes will not be tolerated.
As France strengthens its protective measures, Jewish communities remain vigilant but hopeful that enhanced security will prevent further tragedies.
The government’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable sites aims to balance effective deterrence with the need to maintain open, welcoming spaces for cultural and religious life.
The Interior Ministry’s orders mark a significant step in national efforts to combat antisemitism and uphold public safety following a tragic event that has resonated far beyond U.S. borders.
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