A 33-year-old Algerian man has been arrested in connection with the attempted arson attack on the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grande-Motte, southern France, which occurred on August 24, 2024. The suspect, who was carrying a Palestinian flag and possibly a 9mm pistol, set fire to several entry doors of the synagogue and nearby cars, causing an explosion that injured a police officer.The arrest took place in Nîmes, about 40 kilometers from La Grande-Motte, after a 12-hour manhunt involving approximately 200 police and gendarmes. During the arrest, the suspect opened fire on police, leading to an exchange of gunfire that left the suspect injured but not in critical condition.French authorities have strongly condemned the attack, with President Emmanuel Macron describing it as a ‘terrorist act’ and emphasizing that ‘the fight against antisemitism is a daily battle’. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal labeled the incident an ‘antisemitic attack,’ stating that ‘an absolute tragedy’ was narrowly averted due to the quick response of firefighters and police.In response to the attack, French authorities have increased security measures around Jewish institutions across the country. The national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into ‘attempted murder linked to a terrorist organization’.This incident occurs amid a concerning trend of increased antisemitic acts in France. Official figures show 887 reported antisemitic acts in the first half of 2024, nearly triple the number (304) from the same period in 2023. The surge in such incidents has been linked to heightened tensions following the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023.As the investigation continues, both Prime Minister Attal and Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin have visited the scene in La Grande-Motte. The arrest of the suspect marks a significant development in the case, but authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to combat antisemitism and protect Jewish communities across France.
Key points
- A 33-year-old Algerian man has been arrested for the attempted arson attack on a synagogue in La Grande-Motte, France.
- The suspect was apprehended after a 12-hour manhunt and exchanged gunfire with police during the arrest.
- French authorities have labeled the attack as antisemitic and terrorist in nature, prompting increased security measures around Jewish institutions.
- The incident occurs amid a significant rise in antisemitic acts in France, with 887 reported in the first half of 2024.
