A 33-year-old man has been charged with terrorism following an arson attack on a synagogue in France last weekend. The individual claimed his actions were intended to defend Palestinians and influence Israeli policy, as stated by prosecutors on Wednesday.
This incident has reignited concerns over antisemitism in France, particularly in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, prompting increased security at Jewish places of worship nationwide.
The suspect set multiple fires around the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grande Motte, a Mediterranean resort town, on Saturday. A police officer was injured during the incident.
Identified only by his initials, EHK, the suspect fled but was later apprehended. He sustained injuries to his thorax, arm, and face during the arrest, according to France’s national counterterrorism prosecutor’s office.
EHK, an Algerian with French residency, appeared before a judge on Wednesday. Prosecutors are seeking preliminary terrorism charges, including attempted murder, arson motivated by race or religion, and armed violence against police. Two other individuals suspected of aiding him may also face charges.
During questioning, EHK admitted to the synagogue arson, stating it was to support the Palestinian cause and provoke a reaction from Israeli authorities. He claimed he did not intend to kill but wanted to frighten people.
Based on police questioning and his social media activity, EHK has recently become more radical in his religious beliefs and expressed a desire to fight in Gaza. He has long harboured animosity towards Jews, particularly concerning the situation in Palestine.
In recent weeks, EHK purchased a firearm and researched synagogues, Jewish holidays, and Sabbath practices. On Saturday, he went alone to the Beth Yaacov synagogue armed with a handgun, several plastic bottles of fuel, and an axe inscribed with statements about Palestine, Gaza, and Muslim blood. Prosecutors have requested his detention pending further investigation.
Caretaker Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the attack, saying, “Once again, French Jews have been targeted and attacked because of their beliefs. We are outraged and repulsed.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- ABP reports on an anti-Semitic attack at the synagogue in La Grande Motte, France, where a police officer was injured in an explosion and the suspect was seen with a Palestinian flag. (read more)
- Washington Post reports on the fatal shooting of a man who set fire to a synagogue in Rouen, France, with police intervening to extinguish the flames and prevent further harm. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened at the French synagogue last weekend?
A 33-year-old man set multiple fires at the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grande Motte.
Why did the suspect attack the synagogue?
He said he aimed to defend Palestinians and change Israeli policy.
What charges is the suspect facing?
He faces preliminary terrorism charges, including attempted murder, arson, and armed violence.
Was anyone injured during the attack?
A police officer was injured, and the suspect was also injured during his arrest.
What measures have been taken following the attack?
Security at Jewish places of worship in France has been heightened.