French police have fatally shot an armed man who attempted to set fire to a synagogue in the northern city of Rouen early this morning.
According to a source close to the case, the assailant was armed with a knife and an iron bar when confronted by police officers. The swift response from the authorities prevented a potentially devastating incident.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin praised the actions of the police, stating, “National police in Rouen neutralised early this morning an armed individual who wanted to set fire to the city’s synagogue. I congratulate them on their responsiveness and courage.”
Rouen Mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, emphasizing that the entire city was affected by the attack. He stated, “Through this attack and this attempted fire at the Rouen synagogue, it is not only the Jewish community that is affected. The entire city of Rouen is bruised and in shock.”
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in France following recent events, including the country’s raised alert level due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
French authorities have bolstered security around synagogues across the nation in anticipation of potential attacks. Emergency services were swiftly deployed to the synagogue in Rouen, underscoring the proactive measures in place to protect communities.
This latest incident follows a daring prison escape earlier this week in Rouen, where armed assailants ambushed a prison van, resulting in the death of two officers and injuries to three others. The escaped convict, Mohamed Amra, remains at large, prompting a nationwide manhunt.
The French government has vowed to pursue all necessary measures to ensure public safety and bring those responsible for such violent acts to justice.
