The office of French President Emmanuel Macron announced today (Saturday) that Macron has ordered the mobilization of 7,000 soldiers to enhance security patrols, following the stabbing death of a teacher in an attack carried out by an extremist, according to Reuters.
France raised its security alert to the highest level on Friday after a 20-year-old man fatally stabbed a teacher and seriously injured two others in an attack at a school in the city of Arras in northern France.
Macron’s office stated that the forces will be mobilized by Monday evening until further notice as part of an ongoing operation conducting regular patrols in major cities and tourist sites.
This heightened security comes as France is hosting the Rugby World Cup and preparing to face South Africa in the quarter-finals later today.
France has been the target of a series of attacks over the years, with one of the deadliest being a coordinated assault by gunmen and suicide bombers at entertainment venues and cafes in Paris in November 2015.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin stated yesterday that the attack in Arras is related to events in the Middle East, where Israel is conducting a military operation to eliminate Hamas following its attack on Israel last Saturday.
The stabbing incident in Arras, France, reflects ongoing security concerns in the country due to various threats, including terrorism. France has faced several terror attacks in recent years, leading to increased vigilance and security measures. President Macron’s decision to deploy 7,000 soldiers underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting citizens from potential threats. The situation remains dynamic as authorities investigate the motives behind the attack and work to enhance security measures.
