Paris investigates threat to Jewish synagogue

French authorities are investigating a potential terrorist threat after police discovered a vehicle containing weapons and ammunition in Sarcelles, a town north of Paris with a significant Jewish population. The national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office announced Sunday it has opened an investigation into suspected terrorist conspiracy.

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We do not yet know the motives.

The discovery was made Saturday when intelligence services flagged a suspicious vehicle parked near a synagogue. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin stated that the vehicle was not parked randomly but in proximity to the place of worship. While the motives remain unclear, and no suspects have been identified, a source close to the investigation indicated that the Jewish community was a potential target.

In parallel to the vehicle discovery, authorities conducted a bomb disposal operation on Saturday, which led to the evacuation of approximately 300 people. The operation, which lasted about two hours, confirmed the vehicle contained an assault rifle and a handgun, described by the Interior Minister as "weapons of war." The weapons were reportedly loaded and stored in the car's trunk.

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In this stage of the investigation, there is nothing that allows us to confirm that the Jewish community was targeted.

French authorities have emphasized that all hypotheses are still being considered as the investigation proceeds. Security measures have been heightened around sensitive sites in Sarcelles and its surrounding areas. The Interior Minister also noted that French authorities have thwarted three attacks since the beginning of the year, underscoring the ongoing security challenges.

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weapons of war