French Police Investigate Death Threats Targeting Israeli Athletes at Paris Olympic Games

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16305010/original/open-uri20240728-55-sv8cou?1722195931
ICARO Media Group
Politics
28/07/2024 19h26

In a concerning development at the Paris Olympic Games, French police have launched an investigation into death threats received by three Israeli athletes, according to a statement from the Paris' prosecutors office on Sunday. Additionally, anti-cybercrime officers have started probing the release of personal data belonging to athletes on social media platforms, with efforts being made to have it swiftly removed.

The investigation comes after Israel's National Cyber Directorate concluded that Iranian hackers were responsible for creating social media channels to expose personal information about members of the Israeli delegation and send them threatening messages. On the same day, Israel's foreign minister warned his French counterpart about a potential Iranian-backed plot to target Israeli athletes and tourists during the Paris Olympics.

Taking these threats seriously, Israeli athletes participating in the Games are now being escorted to and from events by elite tactical units and provided with round-the-clock protection throughout the duration of the Olympics. Israel's internal security service, Shin Bet, is actively assisting with security measures.

Expressing solidarity with the French authorities, an Israeli diplomatic source affirmed their full support for the actions being taken. The source emphasized that these measures send a crucial message to individuals and organizations attempting to threaten athletes.

As the investigation unfolds, French police are determined to ensure the safety and security of all participants at the Paris Olympic Games. Efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the death threats and the dissemination of personal data on social media are ongoing.

These alarming incidents serve as a reminder of the increasingly sophisticated nature of threats faced by athletes, highlighting the importance of robust security measures to safeguard their well-being during major sporting events.

The Paris Olympic Games continue amidst heightened security as athletes from around the world strive for excellence, while authorities remain vigilant in countering any attempts to disrupt this prestigious event.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related