France To Enhance Security Measures For New Year’s Celebrations Amidst Heightened Terror Threat

Posted by: lukwago J in world news December 30, 2023

In response to a significant terror threat, France has announced its decision to bolster security measures during the upcoming New Year’s celebrations

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday that his government would tighten security for New Year’s celebrations in France due to a ‘very high’ terror threat, the news agency Reuters reported.

“I called for an extremely strong mobilization of the police and gendarmerie services against the backdrop of a very high terrorist threat. Of course, because of what is happening in Israel and Palestine,” Interior Minister Darmanin told reporters.

The decision to tighten security comes as a result of a pronounced increase in the level of threat posed by terrorist activities. French authorities have deemed the threat to be very high, necessitating the implementation of additional measures to mitigate potential risks.

Gerald Darmanin’s remarks came as there has been a growing risk of extremist attacks not just in France, but the whole of Europe since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7.

Nearly a week into the conflict, a high school teacher in France’s Arras was stabbed by a former student who claimed he was a member of the Islamic State (IS). The attacker also made a marginal reference to the Israel-Hamas war before stabbing 57-year-old Dominique Bernard of the Lycee Gambetta High School.

France wants to provide a secure environment

On Dec 2, a 26-year-old French national upset over the conflict attacked tourists near the Eiffel Tower. The attacker, a male, attacked a tourist couple with a knife on the Quai de Grenelle, mortally wounding a German national.

He was then chased by the police and attacked two other people with a hammer before he was arrested. Interior Minister Darmanin said the man was upset about the Gaza war and was also upset that so many Muslims were dying in Afghanistan and Palestine.

By enhancing security protocols, France aims to provide a secure environment for individuals partaking in New Year’s celebrations across the country.

The measures will be strategically implemented at various public spaces, including popular gathering points and event venues, to ensure maximum protection.

While the specifics of the security measures have not been disclosed for operational reasons, it can be anticipated that they will include intensified surveillance, increased police presence, and enhanced coordination among security agencies.

Preserving the joyful and festive atmosphere

These precautionary measures are intended to act as a deterrent to any potential threats and to swiftly respond to any untoward incidents.

The French government has continually demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding public safety during major events, and this year’s New Year’s celebrations are no exception.

The decision to tighten security aligns with the country’s ongoing efforts to address the evolving nature of terrorism and adapt its security strategies accordingly.

It is important to note that these enhanced security measures are not intended to dampen the spirit of celebration.

France remains dedicated to preserving the joyful and festive atmosphere that characterizes New Year’s festivities while ensuring the safety of all participants.

France’s decision to tighten security for New Year’s celebrations is a proactive response to the prevailing high terror threat. These enhanced measures aim to strike a balance between ensuring public safety and preserving the joyous nature of the festivities.

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