US Olympic officials express confidence in security arrangements for Paris 2024 Olympics
In the wake of a deadly attack in Paris last weekend, US Olympic officials have expressed their confidence in the security arrangements for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Recent warnings of an elevated threat of attacks in both the US and Europe since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October have raised concerns about the safety of the upcoming Olympic Games.
Despite media reports indicating concern within the security forces that the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics could be vulnerable to an attack, the French government has insisted that the plans for the ceremony will go ahead as scheduled. The ceremony, which will see athletes paraded on the River Seine in a flotilla, has raised security concerns in light of recent events.
Sarah Hirshland, the chief executive of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), assured reporters that US officials are “extraordinarily conscious” of the current security climate. She noted that the safety and security of Team USA athletes and the entire delegation is a top priority and that close contact is being maintained with French and US officials to ensure robust security measures are in place.
French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera also weighed in on the security concerns, stating that while there is no “plan B” for the opening ceremony, there are several alternatives within the existing plan that could be adapted if necessary. She acknowledged the reality of the terrorist and Islamist threat but emphasized that it is not specific to France or the Games.
The assurance from US Olympic officials comes amid ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of athletes and attendees at the Paris 2024 Olympics in the current global security climate.
