Arson Attack Targets Paris Railways Ahead Of Olympics Opening Ceremony: What You Need To Know

The high-speed rail system in France, the host of the 2024 Summer Olympics, was the target of coordinated arson attacks on Friday ahead of the event’s opening ceremony.

What Happened: The attacks were carried out on Friday morning. French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal divulged information about the attacks in a post on X.

“Early this morning, acts of sabotage were carried out in a prepared and coordinated manner on SNCF installations,” Attal said. “The consequences on the rail network are massive and serious.”

While officials have not yet determined if the attacks were an instance of organized terror, Attal expressed a strong desire to establish the identity of the arsonists.

“Our intelligence services and law enforcement are mobilized to find and punish the perpetrators of these criminal acts.”

According to the New York Times, the attacks will disrupt transportation for over 1 million passengers over the weekend before the train lines can be repaired. The fires were set in pipes carrying cables, making repairs difficult, and were detected around 4 a.m.

Why it Matters: The Olympics is a biannual event that draws participants and fans from around the world.

Officials are still planning on hosting the opening ceremony on Friday, though many athletes and fans may not be able to attend. The railway disruptions will likely make it harder for fans to attend the opening ceremony.

Paris officials are on high alert for potential threats, with additional security presence and fortification, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Also Read:

• Scottie Scheffler, Gold Medalist? Golfer Looks To Turn 2024 PGA Tour Success Into A 2024 Olympic Medal

Photo: Symeonidis Dimitrios/Shutterstock.com