Two cars were set on fire outside a synagogue in southern France on Saturday, leading to an explosion that injured a police officer, according to authorities.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin described the incident, which took place near the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Motte, close to Montpellier on the southern coast of France, as “clearly a criminal act.”
He stated that “all available resources are being used to find the person responsible.”
Both Darmanin and Prime Minister Gabriel Attal planned to visit the site of the explosion later on Saturday.
Police believe the explosion was likely caused by a gas canister hidden in one of the cars.
La Motte, a town with about 8,500 permanent residents, is a popular seaside destination that attracts over 100,000 tourists each year.
Earlier this month, Darmanin reported that the government had recorded 887 anti-Semitic incidents in France in the first half of 2024, nearly three times more than during the same period in 2023.
Update
French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed that this morning’s explosion near the Beth Yaacov synagogue in Montpellier was an act of terrorism.
According to French media, the suspect involved was reportedly carrying a bag with a Palestinian flag. During the attack, one officer was wounded. The incident has heightened concerns, with security forces on high alert.
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