French authorities foresee reinforced security for the Paris Olympic Games

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced this Monday (25) that the country's security forces and intelligence services “will be prepared” to ensure security during the Paris Olympic Games. This statement comes one day after the French government raised the maximum security alert level in response to the recent attack in Moscow, claimed by an offshoot of the jihadist group Islamic State (IS), which resulted in the deaths of 137 people in a concert hall. .

Constant threats

According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the Islamic State of Khorasan has carried out “several attempted attacks in recent months” in France, a country that has been the target of terrorist attacks in the past, such as those that occurred in November 2015, when three commandos Jihadists killed 130 people in a series of attacks in Paris.

Minister Darmanin highlighted the threat that looms over France, especially during extraordinary events such as the Olympic Games. The minister highlighted the preparation of the security forces and intelligence services for the sporting event, stating that they will be ready for any eventuality.

“France is particularly threatened, especially during these extraordinary events that will be the Olympic Games”said Darmanin during a visit to Roubaix, in the north of the country. “The French police, agents, delegates, intelligence services will be ready”added the minister.

_{Minister of the Interior, Gérald Darmanin (Photo: reproduction/Yoan Valat/EFE/EPA)}

Readiness for the Games

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal also emphasized the readiness of the authorities, mentioning the deployment of “exceptional means” throughout French territory and the mobilization of 4,000 additional troops. The Ministry of the Interior reported the arrest of individuals involved in plans to attack Jewish targets, an LGBT nightclub and Christian religious buildings, highlighting the seriousness of the threats faced.

With the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games scheduled to take place between July 26 and September 8, a large audience is expected, with at least 10 million spectators. Security is a top priority in the current climate of terrorist threats.

Featured photo: Paris Olympic Games (Reproduction/Vincent Isore/IP3 Press/Maxppp)