Following the deadly attack that killed two staff members at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau instructed regional authorities to “reinforce security around sites linked to the Jewish community” across France.
In a telegram sent May 22 to local prefects, Retailleau stressed that security measures in France—home to the largest Jewish population in Europe—must be “visible and deterrent,” calling for increased police patrols and permanent guard posts.
Security is to be stepped up at synagogues, schools, businesses, media outlets, and cultural events, with additional support from soldiers deployed under France’s domestic anti-terror mission, Operation Sentinelle.
Coordination with prosecutors
Retailleau also urged local officials to coordinate with prosecutors to ensure proper oversight of identity checks, bag inspections, and vehicle searches, in line with judicial procedures.
The Washington attack took place outside the Jewish Museum in the heart of the U.S. capital, not far from the Capitol building, during a reception hosted by the American Jewish Committee. Police said the suspect acted alone and shouted pro-Palestinian slogans before being arrested.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned what he called an “antisemitic attack” and offered his condolences to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, expressing his “thoughts for the families and loved ones of the victims.”