France is facing one of its most tense security periods in recent years. Authorities have canceled the traditional New Year’s Eve concert on the Champs-Élysées and reinforced surveillance across Paris and other major cities due to an “extremely high” terror alert.

Christmas markets remain a primary focus, as they are again considered potential targets. 

Interior Minister Laurent Núñez sent a formal directive to all regional prefects urging extraordinary security measures. He drew attention to recent incidents, including last year’s attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany, which left five dead and nearly 200 injured.

He also referenced the 2018 Strasbourg market attack, a painful national precedent that continues to shape France’s security response. 

Núñez requested full mobilization of Intelligence services to detect, prevent, and, if necessary, disrupt any imminent terrorist threat. Law enforcement must establish a highly visible and “deterrent” presence in crowded areas, including Christmas markets, commercial districts, transportation hubs, and cultural events. 

Directive includes heightened monitoring of pedestrian flows, expanded use of video surveillance, and the ability to impose traffic and parking restrictions around major gatherings. 

A recent discovery of a firearm near the Strasbourg Christmas market intensified concerns and prompted an immediate investigation. According to the Interior Ministry, incidents of this nature demand strict protocols extending beyond police forces to include local authorities, private security firms, transport operators, and event organizers. 

The military personnel of Operation Sentinelle will also reinforce street patrols, providing increased visibility and deterrence. The most emblematic measure was the cancellation of the December 31st concert on the Champs-Élysées, a longstanding Parisian tradition.

Opposition to the decisions

The prefecture cited “security reasons,” a decision criticized across the political spectrum. Republican Party leader Bruno Retailleau argued that France risks losing symbolic moments of unity by canceling such celebrations. 

Although political debate continues, officials emphasize that the priority is public safety as France prepares for a tense New Year’s Eve under reinforced security conditions.