Late last night, the Eiffel Tower was evacuated after a knife-wielding Mauritanian-born man shouted “Allahu Akbar” (an Arabic term meaning “Allah is greater [than your God or government]”) before trying to force his way past security.
The man, presumably Muslim given what he chose to scream and given the fact that Mauritania is 100% Muslim, was arrested.
No one was hurt in the incident.
Police arrested the would-be-intruder at around 11.30pm, just half an hour before the tower stops admitting visitors.
According to the U.K.’s Daily Mail:
At the time of the incident the tower was lit up with the colours of the team to welcome the club’s new world-record signing, Brazilian star Neymar.
France has been under a state of emergency since the November 2015 attacks on Paris restaurants, a concert venue and a sports stadium that left 130 people dead.
Since the first wave of terror attacks in January 2015, 239 people have been killed.
Fs, you’re not supposed to say that. You’re supposed to say “mentally ill individual” and make no mention of motive. Didn’t you get the memo
— Britannic⏳ (@Sol_Tenebris) August 6, 2017
You’re supposed to say “Arabic shouting” not Allahu I want a burger
— ツ🇬🇧 (@george_t4ylor) August 6, 2017
Nothing to do with Islam however.
— stugots (@Morty_Fied) August 6, 2017
Millions on the left scratching their chin wondering what this man’s intentions were? 🙄
— Paul MacDonald (@ptmacdonald1) August 6, 2017
I expect it was an extreme right winger trying to discredit Muslims /sarc
— Deplorable woodpile (@DavidAHoward) August 6, 2017
Good luck France! With your toy boy President and your overwhelming Muslim population, you’re stuffed!
— Duchess of Exeter (@WhosFibbing) August 6, 2017
— JeSuisGodfreyElfwick (@Mug2Punter) August 6, 2017