The French government, which is organizing the Summer Olympic Games under the shadow of the country’s political crisis, was shaken by the violence in Paris on the opening day of the Olympics. It was reported that train lines were largely disrupted a few hours before the opening ceremony due to “the actions of malicious individuals.”
Week-long Train Services Cancelled
Eurostar, the company that provides rail transportation services in the country, announced that it has suspended its two-way services due to the violent incidents. The French Ministry of Transport announced that services will not be available for a week due to “coordinated and dirty attacks” targeting railways and train services.
Bomb Scare at Shared Airport
Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport, located in the region where the French-Swiss-German borders meet, was evacuated and temporarily closed for security reasons. However, a statement later stated that the evacuation was carried out due to a bomb alarm and that the airport had resumed operations.
Organized Arson
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stated that SNCF facilities were subject to planned and coordinated sabotage and that efforts to find the perpetrators were ongoing. The failure of government formation efforts following the EP elections, in which left and liberal parties came out on top, had raised concerns.
Excessive Security Measures Frustrated
The excessive security measures taken at the Olympic opening ceremony sparked outrage among the French public and tourists. Security checks have caused transportation difficulties, while the Seine River and its surroundings have been closed to civilians. Tourists have also faced difficulties as residents of Paris go on holiday to escape the Olympic crowds.
Reaction to Israel’s Athlete Sending
Protests in Paris drew attention to the brutal massacres in Gaza and criticized Israel for sending athletes. Leaflets hung on billboards protested Israel’s policies and questioned the athletes’ participation.
