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Paris, Aug 24 (EFE).– A police officer was injured in a suspected arson attack on the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grand Motte, southern , prompting a terrorism investigation as authorities search for the perpetrator.
Two vehicles were set on fire near the synagogue, one containing a gas cylinder that exploded, injuring the officer. He was taken to the hospital, but initial reports indicate his injuries are not serious.
Additionally, fires were set at two entrances to the Beth Yaacov synagogue, where five people, including the rabbi, were inside at the time. Fortunately, they were unharmed, the prosecutor’s office said.
The incident, which occurred shortly before 8:30 a.m. (6:30 GMT), was of “manifestly criminal” origin, according to Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, who offered “full ” to the Jewish community and the city via X.
“All means have been mobilized to find the perpetrator.”
The flames reached the synagogue’s doors, which were empty at the time. Public radio reported that the fire was started in four different locations. The attack took place on the synagogue’s busiest day of the week.
The prefect of the Hérault department has ordered the police and gendarmerie to “strengthen the security of Jewish sites in the department.”
The attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism, with security forces searching for the suspected perpetrator and any accomplices.
The National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) has taken over the investigation on charges of attempted murder, destruction using dangerous means, and criminal association, all with terrorist motivations.
Acting Prime Minister Gabriel Attal confirmed on X that the PNAT is leading the investigation, and security forces are reviewing security camera footage in the area to identify the suspect. He added that, along with acting Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, they have ordered the immediate reinforcement of security at Jewish places of worship.
Attal and Darmanin are traveling to La Grand Motte, near Montpellier, to visit the synagogue and discuss the situation with local authorities.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from French political leaders. Former President François Hollande said: “When a synagogue is attacked, the whole of is targeted,” emphasizing that “anti-Semitism must be denounced and combated unanimously.” EFE rcf-ssk
