Gerald Darmanin Calls for Enhanced Security Measures Around Churches

Gerald Darmanin, France’s Interior Minister, has called for increased security measures around churches in response to growing terrorist threats.

During an interview, Gerald Darmanin, France’s Interior Minister, while referring to the continuation of severe tensions at the international level, particularly the war between Gaza and the Zionist regime, announced that maintaining heightened vigilance regarding demonstrations and Christian places of worship, especially during the celebrations of “Ascension” and “Pentecost,” is extremely necessary.

In his message, he called upon stakeholders to pay special attention to services and gatherings that traditionally attract large audiences or are particularly sensitive issues. He added that the most sensitive locations, such as churches, should be secured with systematic support from soldiers of the “Sentinel” operation (a military operation aimed at combating terrorism and strengthening protection of citizens) with constant presence during the times of people’s entry and exit.

The French Interior Minister’s concerns stem from recent tensions regarding attacks by radical Islamist extremists on Christians and even their murder. He also expressed concern last year about the resumption of Islamist terrorist threats in Europe and had called for strengthening counter-terrorism cooperation with the United States.