Heightened security measures ordered near Churches in France

PARIS — French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has issued orders to bolster security measures around churches during the celebrations of Ascension and Pentecost, 9 May and 19 May respectively, as well as during the Orthodox Holy Week.

Speaking via X, the Minister stated that ongoing international tensions, particularly the conflict in Gaza, necessitate a heightened level of vigilance around Christian places of worship.

Darmanin emphasized that sensitive locations will receive increased security, with a constant presence of security personnel during the times of arrival and departure of worshippers.

France has raised its security alert level to the highest tier following the recent attack on a concert hall in Moscow, Russia, resulting in 144 casualties, carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS).