In response to a recent tragic incident, France has taken decisive action to enhance its security measures. The country will deploy up to 7,000 soldiers to bolster security in the wake of a school attack in the northern city of Arras. The attack resulted in the fatal stabbing of a teacher and left three others wounded, and it is suspected to be connected to Islamic radicalization, according to media reports.
The incident, which took place at the Gambetta-Carnot school, sent shockwaves through France, occurring amidst global tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The suspect, a Chechen who had previously attended the school, had been under surveillance by intelligence services due to concerns of radicalization.
To address this growing security concern, the French government has raised the national threat alert and initiated the deployment of 7,000 soldiers, effective until further notice. This move falls under the "Attack Emergency" threat posture, allowing for the temporary mobilization of the military to protect public spaces and take other necessary measures.
The school reopened its doors, with heightened security, as some children and staff returned, while classes remained canceled for the time being. The attacker's exact motive remains unclear, and the suspect is reportedly not cooperating with investigators.
For many in France, this attack brings back painful memories of the 2017 killing of teacher Samuel Paty, who was also targeted by a radicalized Chechen. The suspect in the recent attack had been under surveillance for possible radicalization since the summer, although there were no signs of an imminent threat, according to the Interior Minister.
Authorities are also exploring potential links between the Middle East conflict and this attack. French intelligence services have detained several individuals near schools and places of worship since the Israel-Hamas conflict began, as they believe some were armed and preparing to take action. This heightened security extends to Jewish sites across the country.
The alleged assailant repeatedly shouted "Allahu akbar" during the attack, prompting prosecutors to consider charges of terrorism-related murder and attempted murder. The victims of the attack include Dominique Bernard, a French language teacher at the Gambetta-Carnot school, along with another teacher and a security guard, all in critical condition. A cleaning worker was also injured.
President Emmanuel Macron, while announcing the school's reopening, emphasized the importance of unity in the face of such challenges. He stressed that France must stand strong against terrorism and highlighted the significance of education and knowledge transmission in this ongoing fight against ignorance.
