France Deploys 3000 Troops to Guard Schools From Terror
The French government announced new security measures for its public school system Wednesday, including the deployment of 3,000 troops to guard against terrorism.
France is in a state of emergency after three major terror attacks over the past 19 months, resulting in 230 deaths. The new reality has forced the government to invest vast resources in its own backyard, with half of the French soldiers in military operation being deployed on the street during the spring.
The government fears schools may be the next target for an attack. Islamic State has previously urged its French sympathizers to remove their children from the public school system, and to kill teachers who are “enemies of Islam” for teaching secularism.
When 12 million students return to school next week, 3,000 troops will be there to protect them.
“Throughout the year, particular attention will be put around schools,” Security Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said during a press conference Wednesday in Paris, according to Reuters. “Active surveillance around schools, high-schools and universities will be reinforced by roving patrols.”
Students will also take mandatory classes on how to survive terrorist attacks. Students aged 13 and older will learn life-saving skills and how to stay calm during attacks. Children as young as three will be practicing the game of “silence reigns,” in which they will have to try and be as quiet as possible.
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