France Boosts Security at Jewish Synagogues

A suspected arson attack on the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grande Motte, France, resulted in two cars being set ablaze, injuring a police officer. Acting Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin classified the incident as an 'attempted arson' and a 'clearly criminal act,' emphasizing the need for increased police presence at Jewish places of worship due to rising antisemitism since the Israel-Hamas conflict began last year. One of the burning cars contained a propane gas tank, raising further alarm about the potential for greater harm. The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office has taken over the investigation, and surveillance footage reportedly captured the incident. Darmanin and acting Prime Minister Gabriel Attal plan to visit La Grande Motte to assure the Jewish community of government support and mobilize efforts to find the perpetrator. The Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF) condemned the attack, highlighting its severe implications for community safety.