France's High-Speed Rail Network Disrupted by Arson Attacks Ahead of Paris Olympics

France's high-speed rail network has been severely impacted by a series of arson attacks, according to the national train operator SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français). The attacks, described as "coordinated acts of sabotage," have caused significant disruptions and paralyzed parts of the transport system just hours before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

The SNCF reported that multiple acts of vandalism occurred on the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines, with deliberate fires set to damage the rail infrastructure. The Transport Minister, Patrice Vergriete, condemned the attacks and said, "A massive attack against France's high-speed TGV rail network was an outrageous criminal act. There would be very serious consequences for rail traffic throughout the weekend with connections towards northern, eastern, and northwestern France halved."

The rail operator has advised travelers to postpone their journeys as all trains are being redirected to their original departure points. Jean-Pierre Farandou, the SNCF's chief executive stated that 800,000 passengers were affected noting that while some trains are being diverted, many will still be canceled. "The southeastern line was not affected as a malicious act was foiled," he added.

In response to the attacks, Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra strongly condemned the vandalism. The timing of the strikes has heightened security concerns ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris. France is deploying a comprehensive peacetime security operation for the event, involving more than 45,000 police officers, 10,000 soldiers, and 2,000 private security agents. Additionally, snipers will be stationed on rooftops and drones will monitor from the air.​