Suspect Arrested After Attempted Synagogue Arson in La Grande-Motte

French police have arrested a man suspected of attempting to set a synagogue on fire in La Grande-Motte. The suspect, a 33-year-old Algerian, was detained after a confrontation with police. Authorities have increased security at Jewish sites across France, following a rise in antisemitic incidents.

French law enforcement has successfully apprehended a man suspected of attempting to ignite a fire at a synagogue in the southern city of La Grande-Motte, as confirmed by Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal revealed that approximately 200 officers were involved in the manhunt for the assailant, who reportedly set fire to several entry doors of the synagogue and nearby vehicles. The anti-terrorism prosecutor's office announced the arrest that took place Saturday evening in Nîmes. In a subsequent confrontation, the suspect was wounded in the face and other individuals were also taken into custody.

Authorities have now pledged to enhance protection measures for synagogues, Jewish schools, and shops across France. This incident follows a marked increase in antisemitic events triggered by recent geopolitical tensions between Hamas and Israel.

(With inputs from agencies.)