A French police officer was stabbed on Thursday afternoon near the Champs-Élysées in Paris, according to confirmation from the Interior Minister, Gérald Darmanin. Initial reports indicate that a patrol was dispatched to intervene at a shop after security personnel at the location reported a person inside armed with a knife. The suspect fled the scene, and during the escape, he struck one officer in the neck. Thanks to the rapid intervention of another officer who was present, the assailant was neutralized with gunfire. The injured officer was transported to a hospital where medical staff are treating the wounds, and his condition is not considered life-threatening.
A substantial police and military deployment remains in the area as a precaution and to safeguard ongoing activities around the vicinity. Darmanin later noted that the incident occurred in the eighth arrondissement while officers were responding to a call about a store. The assailant was promptly neutralized by the responding officers. Support for the officer and his family was pledged by the minister via social media. (Source: French Interior Ministry)
The attack comes just days before Paris hosts the Olympic Games, which has heightened security across the capital. Officials announced that the Champs-Élysées is included within a red security zone as multiple Olympic events are scheduled along the avenue. The security protocol for the Games has been activated, bringing together a large force to monitor potential threats and respond swiftly to incidents. (Source: Paris Olympic Security Directorate)
Officials described the comprehensive security framework as comprising a robust presence across the country, with approximately 15,000 soldiers deployed nationwide and around 5,000 stationed in the capital. In addition to French security forces, cooperation with foreign partners has been arranged to reinforce protective measures in high-profile areas. The latest briefing emphasized readiness and resilience as the city braces for the upcoming events and the associated security landscape. (Source: National Security Briefing)