A recent video released by an unknown source has sparked significant concern as a masked figure, purportedly affiliated with Hamas, threatens violence at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. The man, speaking in Arabic and concealed by a keffiyeh, accused France and President Emmanuel Macron of supporting Israel, which he referred to as the "Zionist regime," in its actions against Palestinians .
In the video, the figure declared, "Rivers of blood will flow through the streets of Paris," and vowed retribution for what he described as French complicity in the deaths of Palestinians He specifically targeted France's decision to include Israeli athletes in the games, suggesting this was a provocation that would not go unanswered.
Holding a sever*d head, Hamas member promises “rivers of blood” in Paris at the Olympic Games.
This is why the world should let Israel finish the job.
Israel is saving the West. pic.twitter.com/X8IuibfAKh
— David G. Greenfield (@NYCGreenfield) July 23, 2024
The video has heightened fears about security at the Paris Olympics, prompting French authorities to bolster their already extensive security measures. France plans to deploy around 35,000 police officers daily, with 45,000 on duty during the opening ceremony. Additionally, an elite French anti-terrorist unit will provide a "ring of steel" around the Israeli delegation to ensure their safety amidst the threats.
This threat is particularly alarming given France's history with terrorism and its significant Jewish population, estimated at about 500,000—the largest in Europe outside Israel. The country has witnessed a surge in antisemitic attacks in recent years, often linked to tensions in the Middle East.
‼️🔊BOMB THREAT IN AIRPORT 🔊‼️
Authorities announce the evacuation of the Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg airport, near the border of #France and #Switzerland, for "security reasons", hours before the start of the first day of the games Olympics in #Paris2024
Good luck Paris pic.twitter.com/Q0KU4APxh7
— Elly 🎗️Israel Hamas War Updates (@elly_bar) July 26, 2024
The situation has placed President Macron in a difficult position, balancing support for Israel with calls to protect Palestinian lives. Macron's visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories underscored this delicate balance as he navigated the conflicting imperatives of supporting Israel's right to defend itself and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The threat also comes in the context of broader geopolitical tensions. Hamas, backed by Iran, has been a longstanding adversary of Israel. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been clear about his goal to eradicate Israel, a sentiment echoed in Tehran’s support for Hamas and other militant groups.
As the Paris Olympics approach, the French government and international allies remain on high alert, emphasizing the importance of robust security measures to protect athletes and attendees from potential attacks. The French Jewish community, already living under the shadow of past violence, faces renewed anxiety as the global sporting event draws near.
France's commitment to hosting a secure Olympics is evident, but the specter of terrorism remains a significant concern, underscoring the ongoing volatility and the far-reaching impacts of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on international events.
