French authorities have thwarted three plots targeting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris and other host cities, according to the national counterterrorism prosecutor.
Olivier Christen revealed on Wednesday, September 11, that the plots involved plans to attack “Israeli institutions or representatives of Israel in Paris” during the Games held from July 26 to August 11. However, Christen noted that the Israeli team itself was not specifically targeted.
Five individuals, including a minor, have been arrested in connection with these foiled plots. They face various terrorism-related charges while remaining in pre-trial detention.
The investigations come amid heightened security concerns due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin had previously warned of security threats from Islamic extremist groups, violent environmental activists, far-right groups, and potential cyberattacks from Russia or other adversaries.
In May, the General Directorate of Internal Security arrested an 18-year-old Chechen man suspected of planning an attack on Olympic football events in Saint-Etienne.
The attack was intended to target establishments near the Geoffroy stadium, and the suspect is accused of planning the act under the influence of Islamic State ideology.
