Recent news has been marked by the tragic attack which took place in Arras, leading to the death of a teacher. In response to this act of violence, the Élysée announced on Saturday morning the deployment of 7,000 soldiers from the Sentinel force throughout France by Monday. This decision comes on the eve of the commemoration of the assassination of Samuel Paty, a history and geography teacher beheaded in 2020 for showing caricatures of Mohammed during his lessons on freedom of expression.
The President of the Republic took this measure during the security meeting held at the Élysée, in response to the attack on Arras. This decision aims to strengthen security on French territory and ensure the protection of citizens. Up to 7,000 soldiers from the Sentinel force will be mobilized, and their deployment will be done by Monday evening and will be maintained until further notice.
This announcement comes at a time when France is on “emergency attack” alert, the highest level of the Vigipirate system. Fear of an importation of the conflict between Israel and Hamas led to this exceptional security measure. The climate is tense in France, and the Minister of the Interior, Gérald Darmanin, spoke of an “extremely negative atmosphere” in the country, establishing a possible link between events in the Middle East and the attack perpetrated in Arras.
It is important to emphasize that Operation Sentinel was set up in 2015 following the attacks against Charlie Hebdo and Hyper Cacher. Since then, it has aimed to strengthen security on French territory and prevent terrorist attacks. The deployment of 7,000 soldiers from the Sentinel force demonstrates the French government’s desire to face the terrorist threat and protect citizens.
However, this deployment decision sparks political debates. Some members of the right are calling for the establishment of a state of emergency, while the far right points to “failures” in security and calls for the resignation of the Minister of the Interior. It is undeniable that this exceptional measure arouses diverse reactions within the political class.
In conclusion, the deployment of 7,000 soldiers from the Sentinel force in response to the attack on Arras shows the determination of the French government to ensure the security of its citizens. This decision comes on the eve of the commemoration of the assassination of Samuel Paty, recalling the importance of freedom of expression and the fight against terrorism. The current situation in France raises political debates and highlights the security challenges facing the country.