Attack in Paris, Meloni’s condolences: “Europe united against terrorism”

The terror of Islamic extremism is once again frightening France, with a tragic episode that occurred last night in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Bir-Hakeim bridge and the Eiffel Tower. An individual armed with a knife attacked a tourist couple, causing the death of a German citizen of Filipino origin and injuring his partner. After carrying out a second hammer attack in the 16th arrondissement, the suspect, identified as Armand R., a French-Iranian born in March 1997 in Neuilly-sur-Seine (Hauts-de-Seine), was finally captured by the forces of order, who used an electric pulse gun to neutralize him.

The man was already known to the secret services and police for his inclination towards Islamic radicalization. In 2018, he was sentenced to five years in prison, including one suspended, for his participation in a violent attack on the Ministry of Defense. After serving his sentence, he was released. Currently under psychiatric care, as confirmed by the Minister of the Interior, Gérald Darmanin, Armand R. is now in custody for murder and attempted murder, with the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office taking over the management of the case. During the attacks, he reportedly shouted “Allah akbar!” twice. before explaining to police that he was “tired of seeing Muslims die”, especially in Gaza, accusing France of being Israel’s “accomplice”.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her deep condolences to France for the attack, with a message in

For my part and that of the Italian government, I express deep condolences to France for the attack near the Eiffel Tower, where one person was killed and two others were injured. A sincere thought to the victim’s family and loved ones. Europe stands united against all forms…

-Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) December 3, 2023