France Probes Possible Iranian Link in Thwarted Bomb Attack

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced on Monday that authorities are investigating a possible Iranian connection in relation to a thwarted bomb attack outside a Bank of America building in Paris. This investigation is based on similarities to other recent attempted attacks in Europe, which a pro-Iran group claimed responsibility for. The incident occurred on Saturday morning when Paris police spotted two suspects carrying a shopping bag near the Bank of America premises in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.

Five suspects have been arrested, including two on Monday, and the national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office has opened an investigation into alleged terrorism-related offenses. Authorities are making a "direct link" with Iran because the "modus operandi" is similar to actions carried out in the Netherlands and Belgium, according to Nuñez.

Nuñez explained that the modus operandi of the attack is similar to previous actions. In those cases, a pro-Iranian group claimed responsibility, linking them to the conflict in the Middle East. The group, known on Telegram as Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which translates to the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right, also claimed responsibility for an attack last week in London, where four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were set on fire.

The minister highlighted that Iranian intelligence services typically use proxies, a series of subcontractors, often common criminals, to carry out highly targeted actions aimed at U.S. interests, the Jewish community, or Iranian opposition figures.

French authorities have stepped up security around key personalities and sites since the United States and Israel launched their war against Iran on February 28, including the personal protection of some figures from the Iranian opposition, according to Nuñez. The ongoing investigation seeks to determine the extent of Iranian involvement and prevent future attacks. The rapid response of the authorities and the arrest of suspects suggest active surveillance and a decisive response to potential terrorist threats.

The situation highlights the growing concern for security and instability in the region, as well as the complexity of international relations.