Knife Attack on Gendarmes Near Arc de Triomphe Prompts National Antiterror Investigation

On February 13, 2026, a knife attack targeting gendarmes took place near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris during the weekly rekindling of the flame ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The suspect, later identified as Brahim B., threatened the gendarmes while shouting statements such as "They should not have killed our women and children" and "We will see who will triumph under the Arc de Triomphe." In response, a gendarme fired shots that seriously wounded the attacker, who was then arrested at the scene.

The national anti-terrorist prosecutor's office promptly took charge of the investigation, reflecting the gravity of the incident. The area around Place de l'Étoile was secured following the attack to ensure public safety.

Brahim B., a 45-year-old man from Mantes-la-Jolie, has a troubling history. He was previously convicted in Belgium for stabbing two police officers during a 2012 attack in a Brussels metro station. He received a 17-year prison sentence for that crime and served 13 years before release. At the time of the recent Paris attack, he was under judicial control and monitored by police through the Micas system, including geolocation tracking.

The suspect's background and his declarations during the attack underscore the terrorism concerns driving the investigation. Local officials, including Paris Mayor Jeanne d'Hauteserre, confirmed the incident and highlighted the swift law enforcement response.

Authorities continue to investigate the motives and circumstances surrounding the assault. The arrest of Brahim B. and the secured perimeter around the iconic site aim to maintain public safety amid heightened alertness to potential threats in central Paris.