French interior minister condemns rise in Islamophobic attacks on mosques
France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau (AFP Photo)
France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the recent Islamophobic spike in attacks targeting mosques, describing such anti-Muslim acts as unacceptable.
Retailleau emphasized that Islamophobic actions have no place in French society and expressed his personal and state support for affected communities.
In a statement on X, Retailleau remarked, “Following the arson attempt at Assounna Mosque two days ago, last night the French-Turkish Saint-Usage association, which hosts a mosque, became the target of another unacceptable anti-Muslim act. I want to extend my support to these communities. Attacking places of worship is a cowardly act and reflects barbaric violence.”
On Oct. 29, the Assounna Mosque in Assounna, in northern France, faced an attempted arson, prompting an immediate investigation. Just last night, another attack took place at the Assounna Mosque, operated by the Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs (DITIB) in Saint-Usage, near Dijon.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact
According to DITIB officials, a piglet carcass was thrown in front of the Assounna Mosque’s entrance from a vehicle. Although security footage provided crucial details, the identities of the attackers remain unknown. Authorities are continuing the investigation into this incident.
The Assounna Mosque has previously been a target of Islamophobic attacks. In December 2023, anti-Muslim graffiti appeared on its walls and entrance, further heightening concerns over escalating religious hostility in the region.
