Arson attacks disrupt french high-speed rail ahead of the Olympics

The carrier stated that the disruptions are expected to last through the weekend. The source of these disruptions is arson near TGV tracks. The AFP agency reported, citing sources, that this may be an act of sabotage.

The National Cybersecurity Agency of France (Anssi) noted that the actions affecting SNCF are not the result of a "cybersecurity-related incident".

Due to the arson, which aimed to damage infrastructure, significant disruptions occurred on three TGV routes: the northern, eastern, and Atlantic (southwest) directions. The line leading to the southeast of the country was not affected.

French Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete called these acts a "scandalous criminal act." The head of the sports ministry, Amelie Oudea-Castera, condemned those who want to "sabotage the Olympics."

A security forces source quoted by AFP said intelligence services have been mobilized. According to this source, the method of operation—arson of installations—resembles that used in the past by far-left groups.

The arson attacks occurred not only before the start of the Olympics but also just before the weekend when vacationers returning from the July holidays and those starting their August trips would affect travel.

Some rail connections were diverted to regular lines, and others were suspended. However, the disruptions will not disappear quickly. They will last at least through the weekend and will affect about 800,000 passengers.

Eurostar also reported that its rail connections between London and Paris were disrupted, causing trains to take longer on this route.