Credits: CTV News
Paris, France – A French soldier on patrol as part of the country’s anti-terrorism Operation Sentinelle was stabbed at the Gare de l’Est train station in central Paris on Monday evening, just days before the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics. French officials confirmed that the soldier is not in serious condition and the attacker has been apprehended.
“A soldier with Operation Sentinelle was stabbed while on patrol at Gare de l’Est in Paris. He is not in serious condition. The perpetrator was arrested,” French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on social media platform X.
Operation Sentinelle, established in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo terror attack in January 2015, involves thousands of troops working to ensure France’s domestic security. This latest incident highlights the ongoing threats faced by these soldiers, especially as France ramps up security measures ahead of the Olympics.
“Our thoughts are with the soldier injured this evening at Gare de l’Est, who was deployed as part of Operation Sentinelle,” French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated on X. “I would like to express my support and gratitude to our armed forces who, more than ever, are helping to ensure the safety of the French people.”
The attack occurred as Paris remains on high-security alert with just 11 days until the Olympic Games, which will run from July 26 to August 11. The city is deploying around 30,000 police officers daily for the duration of the event, with a peak of 45,000 for the opening ceremony along the Seine River. Additionally, about 18,000 military personnel are aiding in security efforts.
A French military official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the soldier was hospitalized but is not in a life-threatening condition. The motive behind the attack is currently under investigation.
The Sentinelle force has been targeted in previous attacks, underlining the ongoing risks faced by security forces in their mission to protect the public. As preparations for the Olympics continue, the safety of both residents and visitors remains a top priority for French authorities.