France Restores High-Speed Trains After Sabotage

France’s high-speed rail network is back in service after coordinated arson attacks caused widespread disruptions just before the Olympics’ opening ceremony. The sabotage, affecting lines east, north, and west of Paris, resulted in significant travel chaos, impacting around 800,000 passengers. French officials, including outgoing Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and SNCF CEO Jean-Pierre Farandou, confirmed that full services have resumed. The Paris prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the attacks, which targeted critical sections of the rail infrastructure.

Rail traffic faced severe disruptions over the weekend as fires broke out at strategic points on the network. The attacks were described as deliberate and aimed at causing maximum disruption, with Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete highlighting the high level of coordination involved. Despite the chaos, Olympic organizers and the International Olympic Committee expressed confidence in the French authorities’ ability to manage the situation and ensure the safety of the events.

The disruptions extended to international services, including the Eurostar line between Paris and London, which saw cancellations and delays. Authorities have increased security measures and are investigating potential motives and perpetrators behind the attacks. The incidents come at a critical time as France hosts the Olympics, prompting heightened security and emergency responses to maintain public safety and event schedules.