France’s high-speed TGV rail network has been severely disrupted following a series of coordinated arson attacks, impacting some of the nation’s busiest lines on the day of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. State-owned railway operator SNCF reported that the “simultaneous malicious acts” occurred overnight, causing widespread chaos.
“Arson attacks were started to damage our facilities,” stated SNCF on Friday. Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the incidents as a “massive attack” against the TGV rail network, labeling it an “outrageous criminal act.”
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The sabotage targeted installations along the lines connecting Paris with the country’s west, north, and east. The southeastern line remained unaffected as “a malicious act was foiled,” according to SNCF. International routes to Belgium and London via the English Channel were also disrupted. The rail operator announced that many routes would be cancelled “at least all weekend while repairs are conducted,” affecting around 800,000 passengers, with many French families travelling for summer vacations.
As Paris prepared for the Olympics opening ceremony, the national police launched an investigation into the incidents. A source close to the investigation revealed to AFP news agency that the attacks were acts of “sabotage” and “evidently coordinated.”
The ceremony is expected to draw 7,500 athletes, 300,000 spectators, and an audience of VIPs. Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera expressed her outrage on BFMTV, stating, “To target the games is to target France.”
Security has been significantly heightened for the Olympics, with more than 45,000 police officers, 10,000 soldiers, and 2,000 private security agents deployed across Paris. The area along the Seine, where the ceremony will take place along a 6km (3.7 miles) stretch of the river, has been locked down, with snipers on rooftops and drones monitoring from the air. Over 100 global leaders are expected to attend the event.
SNCF urged passengers to postpone their trips and avoid train stations amid the ongoing disruptions. CEO Jean-Pierre Farandou acknowledged the impact on travellers, highlighting the extensive damage and the need for significant repairs.
In a related controversy, the Palestinian Olympic committee has accused the International Olympic Committee of double standards for allowing Israel to participate with 88 athletes despite ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Calls to block Israel’s participation were dismissed.
