France has initiated an investigation into death threats targeting three Israeli athletes, following the receipt of threatening emails by the Olympic delegation. The Paris prosecutor’s office announced this development on Sunday. According to Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, the incident was reported promptly, and the national anti-online hate body will be spearheading the investigation.
A source familiar with the case mentioned that, so far, there has been no established link to Iran or any other foreign nation. Additionally, there is no connection between these threats and the recent illegal leak of Israeli athletes’ private data on social media, which occurred on Friday.
The incident comes in the wake of a warning from Israel to France on Thursday. Israel cautioned about potential threats from Iran-backed groups against Israeli athletes and tourists during the upcoming Paris Games. This warning has heightened concerns and underscored the need for stringent security measures.
In response, French authorities have ramped up security for Israeli athletes. They are now provided with round-the-clock personal security within the Athletes’ Village and during their travels to various Olympic sites.
This heightened security detail is part of a broader, comprehensive security operation launched by France for the Olympics. Starting on Friday and continuing through August 11, the operation involves approximately 18,000 troops, supplementing the regular police force, to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators.
This situation highlights the complex and often precarious nature of international sports events, where the safety of athletes can be threatened by geopolitical tensions.
As the Paris Games approach, the vigilance and preparedness of French security forces will be crucial in safeguarding the event and ensuring it proceeds without incident. The ongoing investigation into these threats will be watched closely, as authorities work to identify and neutralize any potential dangers to the athletes.
