France has raised its national threat level to the highest ‘Emergency Attack Level’, following a fatal attack at a school in Arras, northern France, on October 13.
According to the alert, further violent incidents are very likely. It advises that “maximum vigilance and protection in the event of an imminent threat of a terrorist act or in the immediate aftermath of an attack” will be in place.
France has banned pro-Palestine demonstrations relating to the events in Israel and Gaza, and has increased security around Jewish community sites, reports Wales Online.
Acts of terrorism can be indiscriminate and occur in places frequently visited by foreign nationals, including shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport, and places of worship. Methods of attack can include knife attacks, shootings, bombings, and vehicle attacks.
Travellers should follow the advice of local French authorities and remain vigilant in public spaces.
Paris tourist attractions evacuated due to threat
According to euronews, the Louvre Museum and the Palace of Versailles were both evacuated on Saturday (October 14) due to fears of potential attacks.
Officials reportedly received a written message saying there was a “risk to the Louvre Museum and its visitors”, which led to the decision to evacuate and close for the day to carry out essential checks. After no threat was found, the museum reopened on Sunday at its usual hours.
The Palace of Versailles was also evacuated following a bomb threat received in an online message just hours after the Louvre closed.
