“In a shocking turn of events, two teenage boys in a Paris suburb have been charged with raping a 12-year-old girl and committing an act of religion-motivated violence. The incident has sparked widespread concern, particularly in the wake of increased antisemitic acts in France during the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The young girl reported the rape in Courbevoie, a town just outside Paris, on Saturday. Three boys, aged 12 and 13, were taken into custody by the regional prosecutor’s office. Two of the boys were charged with aggravated gang rape, violence, public insult motivated by religion, death threats, attempted extortion, and unlawfully recording or broadcasting sexual images.
The girl’s religion was not disclosed by the prosecutor’s office, but Jewish leader Elie Korchia later revealed that the victim was Jewish and that Palestine was mentioned during the assault. This revelation prompted French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal to label the attack as antisemitic.
The two accused boys remain in custody while the third boy has been named as an assisted witness and placed in a special education program. Despite expressing remorse towards the victim, they have not fully addressed their involvement in the crime.
### Outcry and Political Response
Political leaders, including President Emmanuel Macron, have strongly condemned the attack. Macron has called for schools to hold discussions on racism and antisemitism in light of this incident, as France is on the brink of snap parliamentary elections. The far-right National Rally party has been advocating for security and immigration reforms, making it a key issue in the upcoming elections.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin described the attack as “awful” and highlighted the societal issues at play in preventing such violence. Hundreds of people gathered in front of Paris City Hall to protest antisemitism and show support for the victim.
As the investigation continues, this harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the underlying tensions and prejudices that exist in society. It is crucial for communities to come together, address systemic issues, and strive towards a more inclusive and tolerant society where such acts of violence have no place.”
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