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Paris attacks: suspected ringleader Abdelhamid Abaaoud killed in St-Denis raid – live Paris attacks: nine people held in Brussels raids - live updates
(35 minutes later)
4.09pm GMT16:09
Dominique Revert, one of the managers of the Bataclan concert hall where more than 80 people were killed in Friday’s attack, has given an interview to Billboard magazine in which he vows the venue will continue.
“It will reopen, no question about it,” he says. “Hearts will be heavy for a few months, a few years. But we will reopen. We will not surrender.”
Updated at 4.13pm GMT
3.48pm GMT15:48
Abdelhamid Abaaoud tried to recruit women living in Spain for the Islamic State group, the Spanish interior minister Jorge Fernández Díaz has said.
“This person, Abdelhamid Abaaoud, tried to recruit Spaniards, especially women, though social networks to join and fight with Daesh … to repopulate the caliphate,” he said.
Updated at 4.12pm GMT
3.42pm GMT15:423.42pm GMT15:42
Nine raids in Brussels with two detained Nine raids in Brussels with nine people held
Nine raids in total were carried out in Brussels this morning in the communes of Jette, Uccle and Molenbeek, the Belgian prosecutor has said. Nine raids were carried out in Brussels this morning in the communes of Jette, Uccle and Molenbeek, the Belgian prosecutor has said.
Three of them were linked to the attacks in Paris and two people from those raids have been detained. Three of them were linked to the attacks in Paris, with two people from those raids detained.
The other six raids were focused on properties connected to Bilal Hadfi, who blew himself up at the Stade de France on Friday.The other six raids were focused on properties connected to Bilal Hadfi, who blew himself up at the Stade de France on Friday.
The prosecutor said they were not directly linked to the attacks in Paris and that seven people are being questioned.The prosecutor said they were not directly linked to the attacks in Paris and that seven people are being questioned.
Updated at 4.24pm GMT
3.30pm GMT15:303.30pm GMT15:30
The Belgian prime minister, Charles Michel, has rebuffed any criticism of his country’s security services over the Paris attacks,The Belgian prime minister, Charles Michel, has rebuffed any criticism of his country’s security services over the Paris attacks,
France has said a terror cell in Brussels planned the attacks, and the run-down suburb of Molenbeek was home to several of the suicide bombers, as well as wanted man Salah Abdeslam and the now-dead Paris attacks ringleader Abdelhamid Abaaoud.France has said a terror cell in Brussels planned the attacks, and the run-down suburb of Molenbeek was home to several of the suicide bombers, as well as wanted man Salah Abdeslam and the now-dead Paris attacks ringleader Abdelhamid Abaaoud.
In a speech to parliament, Michel hit back at accusations of failures by the country’s security services.In a speech to parliament, Michel hit back at accusations of failures by the country’s security services.
“I do not accept the criticisms which were aimed at denigrating the work of our security services,” he said.“I do not accept the criticisms which were aimed at denigrating the work of our security services,” he said.
He said another “attack was prevented thanks in particular to intelligence provided by Belgian teams” - referring to Wednesday’s raid on the apartment in St-Denis.He said another “attack was prevented thanks in particular to intelligence provided by Belgian teams” - referring to Wednesday’s raid on the apartment in St-Denis.
France’s interior minister, Bernard Cazeneuve, contradicted that a few moments ago, saying no intelligence had been received from any European country that Abaaoud was back in Europe.France’s interior minister, Bernard Cazeneuve, contradicted that a few moments ago, saying no intelligence had been received from any European country that Abaaoud was back in Europe.
It was three days after the attacks that France received a tipoff from “outside Europe” that Abaaoud may have passed through Greece, Cazeneuve said.It was three days after the attacks that France received a tipoff from “outside Europe” that Abaaoud may have passed through Greece, Cazeneuve said.
Updated at 3.48pm GMTUpdated at 3.48pm GMT
3.07pm GMT15:073.07pm GMT15:07
Bernard Cazeneuve’s speech on how Abdelhamid Abaaoud travelled back to Europe from Syria, despite an international arrest warrant, left little room for doubt about his anger over missed opportunities to detain him.Bernard Cazeneuve’s speech on how Abdelhamid Abaaoud travelled back to Europe from Syria, despite an international arrest warrant, left little room for doubt about his anger over missed opportunities to detain him.
Europe must “pull itself together”, he said. “We must act fast and firmly. Europe must do that, as it remembers the victims and their families.”Europe must “pull itself together”, he said. “We must act fast and firmly. Europe must do that, as it remembers the victims and their families.”
Cazeneuve urged European politicians to adopt the air passenger list (PNR), a reinforcement of external borders and stronger coordination to tackle arms trafficking.Cazeneuve urged European politicians to adopt the air passenger list (PNR), a reinforcement of external borders and stronger coordination to tackle arms trafficking.
He has requested an emergency EU interior ministers meeting on Friday.He has requested an emergency EU interior ministers meeting on Friday.
Updated at 3.10pm GMTUpdated at 3.10pm GMT
2.40pm GMT14:402.40pm GMT14:40
What we know so farWhat we know so far
Here’s all the latest news we have in aftermath of the Paris attacksHere’s all the latest news we have in aftermath of the Paris attacks
Paris attacks ringleader confirmed dead in St-Denis raidParis attacks ringleader confirmed dead in St-Denis raid
France passes state of emergency billFrance passes state of emergency bill
Raids in Brussels amid security clampdownRaids in Brussels amid security clampdown
2.32pm GMT14:322.32pm GMT14:32
Key points from Cazeneuve's speechKey points from Cazeneuve's speech
No information coming from European countries, where he could have transited before arriving in France, was given to us.No information coming from European countries, where he could have transited before arriving in France, was given to us.
Updated at 2.45pm GMTUpdated at 2.45pm GMT
2.21pm GMT14:212.21pm GMT14:21
Cazeneuve said Abaaoud was the subject of a European and international arrest warrant issued by Belgium, because he had been sentenced in absentia to 20 years’ imprisonment for terrorism recruitment.Cazeneuve said Abaaoud was the subject of a European and international arrest warrant issued by Belgium, because he had been sentenced in absentia to 20 years’ imprisonment for terrorism recruitment.
France had information that he had connections to several planned attacks in France, including the attempted church bombing in the Paris suburb of Villejuif last April.France had information that he had connections to several planned attacks in France, including the attempted church bombing in the Paris suburb of Villejuif last April.
Of the six foiled projects in France since spring 2015, Abdelhamid Abaaoud seems to have been linked to four of them.Of the six foiled projects in France since spring 2015, Abdelhamid Abaaoud seems to have been linked to four of them.
Investigations are still ongoing to determine whether he may have been involved in an attempted attack on a Thalys high-speed train, Cazeneuve said.Investigations are still ongoing to determine whether he may have been involved in an attempted attack on a Thalys high-speed train, Cazeneuve said.
Updated at 2.56pm GMTUpdated at 2.56pm GMT
2.12pm GMT14:122.12pm GMT14:12
France was never informed about Abaaoud until after attacks - CazeneuveFrance was never informed about Abaaoud until after attacks - Cazeneuve
Bernard Cazeneuve, the French interior minister, is speaking now.Bernard Cazeneuve, the French interior minister, is speaking now.
He says Abdelhamid Abaaoud played a key role in the Paris attacks.He says Abdelhamid Abaaoud played a key role in the Paris attacks.
France relied solely on its own intelligence, and got no information from other European countries that Abaaoud was in Europe and could possibly travel to France, until the attack happened, he said.France relied solely on its own intelligence, and got no information from other European countries that Abaaoud was in Europe and could possibly travel to France, until the attack happened, he said.
Updated at 2.37pm GMTUpdated at 2.37pm GMT
1.31pm GMT13:311.31pm GMT13:31
French prime minister Manuel Valls has praised the work of police and intelligence services in tracking down Abdelhamid Abaaoud, whom he described as the “brain of these attacks”.French prime minister Manuel Valls has praised the work of police and intelligence services in tracking down Abdelhamid Abaaoud, whom he described as the “brain of these attacks”.
“The brain of these attacks – or at least one of them, if we remain cautious – was among those dead. I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of our intelligence services and the police,” Valls said to loud applause from France’s national assembly.“The brain of these attacks – or at least one of them, if we remain cautious – was among those dead. I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of our intelligence services and the police,” Valls said to loud applause from France’s national assembly.
Updated at 1.53pm GMTUpdated at 1.53pm GMT
1.25pm GMT13:251.25pm GMT13:25
Jon HenleyJon Henley
The Guardian’s Jon Henley in Paris now has the comprehensive report on Abdelhamid Abaaoud’s death in the St-Denis raid, and how the race to catch him played out.The Guardian’s Jon Henley in Paris now has the comprehensive report on Abdelhamid Abaaoud’s death in the St-Denis raid, and how the race to catch him played out.
Related: Abdelhamid Abaaoud, suspected Paris attacks ringleader, was killed in raidRelated: Abdelhamid Abaaoud, suspected Paris attacks ringleader, was killed in raid
Updated at 1.25pm GMTUpdated at 1.25pm GMT
1.17pm GMT13:171.17pm GMT13:17
Interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve will speak at 2.30pm French time, around 15 minutes from now.Interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve will speak at 2.30pm French time, around 15 minutes from now.
1.13pm GMT13:131.13pm GMT13:13
Police sources are now confirming Abaaoud’s cousin Hasna Aitboulahcen was the woman killed in the raid, believed to have blown herself up, says AP citing three different officials.Police sources are now confirming Abaaoud’s cousin Hasna Aitboulahcen was the woman killed in the raid, believed to have blown herself up, says AP citing three different officials.
Her name and connection to Abaaoud was reported by multiple sources after the St-Denis raid, with French intelligence said to have been monitoring her as a potential link to Abaaoud.Her name and connection to Abaaoud was reported by multiple sources after the St-Denis raid, with French intelligence said to have been monitoring her as a potential link to Abaaoud.
Aitboulahcen had a brief exchange with police officers, according to one official who said she was asked: “Where is your boyfriend?” and she responded angrily: “He’s not my boyfriend!” before a huge explosion was heard.Aitboulahcen had a brief exchange with police officers, according to one official who said she was asked: “Where is your boyfriend?” and she responded angrily: “He’s not my boyfriend!” before a huge explosion was heard.
Police officials told AP that her body parts had been mangled, with part of her spine landing on a police car, which had made formal identification difficult.Police officials told AP that her body parts had been mangled, with part of her spine landing on a police car, which had made formal identification difficult.
Updated at 1.51pm GMTUpdated at 1.51pm GMT
12.59pm GMT12:5912.59pm GMT12:59
“Abdelhamid Abaaoud has just been formally identified, after comparing skin samples, as having been killed during the raid,” the prosecutor’s statement said.“Abdelhamid Abaaoud has just been formally identified, after comparing skin samples, as having been killed during the raid,” the prosecutor’s statement said.
“It was the body we had discovered in the building, riddled with bullets.”“It was the body we had discovered in the building, riddled with bullets.”
Updated at 1.52pm GMTUpdated at 1.52pm GMT
12.48pm GMT12:4812.48pm GMT12:48
Abaaoud was initially believed to be in Syria but it became increasingly clear to French investigators that he had managed to return to Europe.Abaaoud was initially believed to be in Syria but it became increasingly clear to French investigators that he had managed to return to Europe.
He left his home country of Belgium in 2014 to fight with Islamic State but he was known to have been able to return to Europe at least once since.He left his home country of Belgium in 2014 to fight with Islamic State but he was known to have been able to return to Europe at least once since.
Last night, French prosecutor Francois Molins said the the operation began at 4.20am after phone taps and surveillance following a tipoff on Monday led police to believeLast night, French prosecutor Francois Molins said the the operation began at 4.20am after phone taps and surveillance following a tipoff on Monday led police to believe
Identification took longer than expected because the entire third floor of the building at 8, rue du Corbillon collapsed during the raid on Wednesday, Georges Salinas, deputy commander of the elite BRI police unit, told French radio.Identification took longer than expected because the entire third floor of the building at 8, rue du Corbillon collapsed during the raid on Wednesday, Georges Salinas, deputy commander of the elite BRI police unit, told French radio.
Updated at 12.50pm GMTUpdated at 12.50pm GMT
12.35pm GMT12:3512.35pm GMT12:35
Paris attack ringleader confirmed dead in Paris raidParis attack ringleader confirmed dead in Paris raid
The French prosecutor’s office confirms that Abdelhamid Abaaoud is the man killed in the raid on St-Denis yesterday.The French prosecutor’s office confirms that Abdelhamid Abaaoud is the man killed in the raid on St-Denis yesterday.
His body has been formally identified at the Rue de Corbillon in the Paris suburb, using skin samples, the prosecutor said.His body has been formally identified at the Rue de Corbillon in the Paris suburb, using skin samples, the prosecutor said.
Updated at 1.10pm GMTUpdated at 1.10pm GMT
12.28pm GMT12:2812.28pm GMT12:28
Conflicting information is rife regarding Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the man reported by several news outlets to have been killed in the St-Denis siege.Conflicting information is rife regarding Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the man reported by several news outlets to have been killed in the St-Denis siege.
Now the Belgian public broadcaster reports neither Abaaoud or Salah Abdeslam, the two most wanted men connected to the Paris attacks, are among the dead or arrested from last night’s raid.Now the Belgian public broadcaster reports neither Abaaoud or Salah Abdeslam, the two most wanted men connected to the Paris attacks, are among the dead or arrested from last night’s raid.
The broadcaster RTBF quotes an official source close to the investigation.The broadcaster RTBF quotes an official source close to the investigation.
Last night the Washington Post had information from two senior European officials, reporting Abaaoud was the dead man from the police raid on the Paris suburban apartment, where a female suicide bomber also died.Last night the Washington Post had information from two senior European officials, reporting Abaaoud was the dead man from the police raid on the Paris suburban apartment, where a female suicide bomber also died.
We still have no official confirmation of who died in the raid from French or Belgian prosecutors or police.We still have no official confirmation of who died in the raid from French or Belgian prosecutors or police.
French forensic teams are working to establish whether the body of a man found dead after a firefight with police is Abaaoud, who is the alleged ringleader of last week’s Paris terror attacks.French forensic teams are working to establish whether the body of a man found dead after a firefight with police is Abaaoud, who is the alleged ringleader of last week’s Paris terror attacks.
French media have reported the dead woman was Abaaoud’s cousin, Hasna Aitboulahcen, but the mutilated condition of both bodies and the dangerous state of the badly damaged building is making it difficult to identify either.French media have reported the dead woman was Abaaoud’s cousin, Hasna Aitboulahcen, but the mutilated condition of both bodies and the dangerous state of the badly damaged building is making it difficult to identify either.
[Update: The Guardian has decided to change our house style for Abdelhamid Abaaoud, from the Arabic spelling Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud to the Westernised version, which the French prosecutor has used.][Update: The Guardian has decided to change our house style for Abdelhamid Abaaoud, from the Arabic spelling Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud to the Westernised version, which the French prosecutor has used.]
Updated at 1.20pm GMTUpdated at 1.20pm GMT
12.15pm GMT12:1512.15pm GMT12:15
French military colonel Gilles Jaron says the country has destroyed 35 Islamic State targets in Syria since last week’s attack.French military colonel Gilles Jaron says the country has destroyed 35 Islamic State targets in Syria since last week’s attack.
French planes dropped 60 bombs on six sites, Islamic State command centres or training sites.French planes dropped 60 bombs on six sites, Islamic State command centres or training sites.
The Charles de Gaulle nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which left on Wednesday for the eastern Mediterranean, will triple France’s air capacity in the region.The Charles de Gaulle nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which left on Wednesday for the eastern Mediterranean, will triple France’s air capacity in the region.
11.52am GMT11:5211.52am GMT11:52
Analysis: Is a chemical weapons attack really a threat?Analysis: Is a chemical weapons attack really a threat?
Julian BorgerJulian Borger
The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Julian Borger, has been speaking to Richard Guthrie, a leading British expert on chemical and biological weapons, who runs the website CBW Events about the comments made by the French prime minister, Manuel Valls, on a possible chemical attack.The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Julian Borger, has been speaking to Richard Guthrie, a leading British expert on chemical and biological weapons, who runs the website CBW Events about the comments made by the French prime minister, Manuel Valls, on a possible chemical attack.
“This might be seen as a dangerous statement to make,” Guthrie said. “This sort of statement is often made after any kind of terror attack that causes extreme shock or is seen as a having been on a scale greater than has gone before,” he added, giving the examples of the Lod airport massacre in 1972, US embassy bombings in Africa in 1998, and after the September 11 attacks in 2001.“This might be seen as a dangerous statement to make,” Guthrie said. “This sort of statement is often made after any kind of terror attack that causes extreme shock or is seen as a having been on a scale greater than has gone before,” he added, giving the examples of the Lod airport massacre in 1972, US embassy bombings in Africa in 1998, and after the September 11 attacks in 2001.
There is a natural human reaction to novel fears, like an attack or recent incident that is more dreadful than previous experience, that bring forward fears of something even greater.There is a natural human reaction to novel fears, like an attack or recent incident that is more dreadful than previous experience, that bring forward fears of something even greater.
This often takes the form of fears of poison of some kind. Humans have an innate inner dread of their surroundings, their air, their food, their water being poisoned.This often takes the form of fears of poison of some kind. Humans have an innate inner dread of their surroundings, their air, their food, their water being poisoned.
Raising the spectre of the use of poison weapons whether by spread of chemical agents or the inducing of deliberate disease, while an understandable human reaction, can be counter-productive as it could make those with hostile intent take more of a focus on these sorts of weapons.Raising the spectre of the use of poison weapons whether by spread of chemical agents or the inducing of deliberate disease, while an understandable human reaction, can be counter-productive as it could make those with hostile intent take more of a focus on these sorts of weapons.
Guthrie said that unless there was specific information the French authorities had not released “there is no clear evidence that the threat of use by terrorists of biological or chemical weapons is greater today than it was last week”.Guthrie said that unless there was specific information the French authorities had not released “there is no clear evidence that the threat of use by terrorists of biological or chemical weapons is greater today than it was last week”.
There has always been a low probability that a group might make an attempt to use such weapons, but the technical challenges are considerable.There has always been a low probability that a group might make an attempt to use such weapons, but the technical challenges are considerable.
Indeed, the scale of the impact and disruption caused by the atrocities in Paris on Friday night make it more likely that terror groups may wish to repeat that sort of attack rather than try something novel and technically challenging.Indeed, the scale of the impact and disruption caused by the atrocities in Paris on Friday night make it more likely that terror groups may wish to repeat that sort of attack rather than try something novel and technically challenging.
Updated at 12.10pm GMTUpdated at 12.10pm GMT
11.35am GMT11:3511.35am GMT11:35
State of emergency bill passes France's lower houseState of emergency bill passes France's lower house
France’s national assembly has approved the extension of the state of emergency for three months.France’s national assembly has approved the extension of the state of emergency for three months.
Le Monde reports that two amendments proposing to change the time limit were rejected, one from the Green party proposing it be limited to two months, another from Eric Ciotti, a Republican politician, who wanted it extended to six months.Le Monde reports that two amendments proposing to change the time limit were rejected, one from the Green party proposing it be limited to two months, another from Eric Ciotti, a Republican politician, who wanted it extended to six months.
The bill will go to the French senate, the upper house, tomorrow where it is expected to be approved.The bill will go to the French senate, the upper house, tomorrow where it is expected to be approved.
Updated at 12.11pm GMTUpdated at 12.11pm GMT
11.19am GMT11:1911.19am GMT11:19
Front National leader Marine Le Pen stormed out of a radio interview this morning after clashing with the presenter and accusing the station of being “a court”.Front National leader Marine Le Pen stormed out of a radio interview this morning after clashing with the presenter and accusing the station of being “a court”.
The far-right politician told France Inter that certain government ministers should resign in the wake of the Paris attacks, including the interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve and justice minister Christiane Taubira.The far-right politician told France Inter that certain government ministers should resign in the wake of the Paris attacks, including the interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve and justice minister Christiane Taubira.
Le Pen went on to accuse Taubira of saying in an interview that it was necessary to “understand the young people who left for Syria”.Le Pen went on to accuse Taubira of saying in an interview that it was necessary to “understand the young people who left for Syria”.
France Inter presenter Patrick Cohen interrupted Le Pen to challenge her interpretation of Taubira’s comments, playing back to her the quotes from the minister’s interview where she had said it was “important to understand what makes young people leave”.France Inter presenter Patrick Cohen interrupted Le Pen to challenge her interpretation of Taubira’s comments, playing back to her the quotes from the minister’s interview where she had said it was “important to understand what makes young people leave”.
Clearly flustered, Le Pen accused the radio station of being “a court” and walked out of the studio, despite Cohen and fellow presenter Bernard Guetta’s attempts to move the conversation on.Clearly flustered, Le Pen accused the radio station of being “a court” and walked out of the studio, despite Cohen and fellow presenter Bernard Guetta’s attempts to move the conversation on.
Updated at 12.18pm GMTUpdated at 12.18pm GMT
11.15am GMT11:1511.15am GMT11:15
The chief of Europe’s policing co-ordination network says at least 2,000 Europeans are foreign fighters who have travelled to Syria or Iraq, with 10,000 names on the EU database.The chief of Europe’s policing co-ordination network says at least 2,000 Europeans are foreign fighters who have travelled to Syria or Iraq, with 10,000 names on the EU database.
Europol director Rob Wainwright said the numbers had doubled in the past year, with 2,000 confirmed fighters and 8,000 other suspects or facilitators. The actual number of fighters is likely to be closer to 5,000, he said.Europol director Rob Wainwright said the numbers had doubled in the past year, with 2,000 confirmed fighters and 8,000 other suspects or facilitators. The actual number of fighters is likely to be closer to 5,000, he said.
In a speech at the European parliament, Wainwright said the agency’s priority was to “motivate the national authorities to share their counterterrorist data” and half the information on the database comes from just five countries out of the EU’s 28 member states.In a speech at the European parliament, Wainwright said the agency’s priority was to “motivate the national authorities to share their counterterrorist data” and half the information on the database comes from just five countries out of the EU’s 28 member states.
Updated at 12.13pm GMTUpdated at 12.13pm GMT
11.07am GMT11:0711.07am GMT11:07
French forensics are continuing the delicate business of identifying the man and woman killed in the raid on St-Denis yesterday. The French interior ministry and Paris prosecutor’s office have reiterated on Thursday morning that it remains unclear whether Abdelhamid Abaaoud the suspected ringleader, has been killed. The woman, who blew herself up, has been named in multiple reports as Abu Oud’s cousin Hasna Aitboulahcen.French forensics are continuing the delicate business of identifying the man and woman killed in the raid on St-Denis yesterday. The French interior ministry and Paris prosecutor’s office have reiterated on Thursday morning that it remains unclear whether Abdelhamid Abaaoud the suspected ringleader, has been killed. The woman, who blew herself up, has been named in multiple reports as Abu Oud’s cousin Hasna Aitboulahcen.
Updated at 12.53pm GMTUpdated at 12.53pm GMT
10.51am GMT10:5110.51am GMT10:51
German arrest had 'link to France' but not necessarily to attacksGerman arrest had 'link to France' but not necessarily to attacks
German police have said a man arrested in Bavaria with a car packed with guns and explosives may have no connection the attacks in Paris on Friday, and was allegedly an arms runner.German police have said a man arrested in Bavaria with a car packed with guns and explosives may have no connection the attacks in Paris on Friday, and was allegedly an arms runner.
The 51-year-old from Montenegro was arrested a week before the Paris attacks, which he was initially linked to after it emerged that the satnav in the car indicated he was driving to Paris.The 51-year-old from Montenegro was arrested a week before the Paris attacks, which he was initially linked to after it emerged that the satnav in the car indicated he was driving to Paris.
“The investigations have established a link to France, but no link to terrorism so far,” a Bavarian police spokesman said on Thursday.“The investigations have established a link to France, but no link to terrorism so far,” a Bavarian police spokesman said on Thursday.
The German interior minister Thomas de Maiziere told ZDF television on Wednesday the satnav indicated he had been to France several times, and the weapons had been expertly hidden in the car, which suggested he frequently smuggled weapons. The suspect had hidden the arms in a way that suggested he smuggled weapons frequently.The German interior minister Thomas de Maiziere told ZDF television on Wednesday the satnav indicated he had been to France several times, and the weapons had been expertly hidden in the car, which suggested he frequently smuggled weapons. The suspect had hidden the arms in a way that suggested he smuggled weapons frequently.
“Everything points to the man being an arms runner, maybe belonging to the world of organised crime.”“Everything points to the man being an arms runner, maybe belonging to the world of organised crime.”
Montenegro’s interior ministry has said the arrested man is an Orthodox Christian with no obvious connection to radical Islam.Montenegro’s interior ministry has said the arrested man is an Orthodox Christian with no obvious connection to radical Islam.
Updated at 11.17am GMTUpdated at 11.17am GMT
10.46am GMT10:4610.46am GMT10:46
The French prime minister’s office has stressed that Manuel Valls’ speech to the French parliament mentioning the possibility of a chemical weapons attack was “not new information on the status of the threat, just a realistic observation”.The French prime minister’s office has stressed that Manuel Valls’ speech to the French parliament mentioning the possibility of a chemical weapons attack was “not new information on the status of the threat, just a realistic observation”.
“Middle East experts know that Daesh [Islamic State] seeks and uses chemical weapons,” a spokesman told Le Monde. “To not consider this possibility would be a mistake.”“Middle East experts know that Daesh [Islamic State] seeks and uses chemical weapons,” a spokesman told Le Monde. “To not consider this possibility would be a mistake.”
Updated at 11.18am GMTUpdated at 11.18am GMT
10.38am GMT10:3810.38am GMT10:38
Stephanie KirchgaessnerStephanie Kirchgaessner
The Guardian’s Rome correspondent has the latest from the security alert in Italy.The Guardian’s Rome correspondent has the latest from the security alert in Italy.
Italy is searching for five possible terror suspects following a warning by US authorities of a possible militant attack, according to Italy’s foreign minister, Paolo Gentiloni.Italy is searching for five possible terror suspects following a warning by US authorities of a possible militant attack, according to Italy’s foreign minister, Paolo Gentiloni.
Possible targets included St Peter’s Basilica in Rome – the world famous church at the heart of the Vatican – and two sites in Milan: the city’s main cathedral and La Scala opera house.Possible targets included St Peter’s Basilica in Rome – the world famous church at the heart of the Vatican – and two sites in Milan: the city’s main cathedral and La Scala opera house.
“As of yesterday our security forces are working to identify five people,” Gentiloni said in an interview with state broadcaster RAI.“As of yesterday our security forces are working to identify five people,” Gentiloni said in an interview with state broadcaster RAI.
Italy had already raised its security level in the wake of Friday’s terror attacks in Paris, which killed 129 people. But Gentiloni on Thursday pointed to a more specific possible threat in Italy after being alerted to five alleged suspects by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US.Italy had already raised its security level in the wake of Friday’s terror attacks in Paris, which killed 129 people. But Gentiloni on Thursday pointed to a more specific possible threat in Italy after being alerted to five alleged suspects by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US.
The FBI gave Italy the names of “five Arab individuals who could be in Italy and should be searched for”, according to the Ansa news agency.The FBI gave Italy the names of “five Arab individuals who could be in Italy and should be searched for”, according to the Ansa news agency.
The US embassy in Rome did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Gentiloni stressed that the US embassy was alerting tourists visiting Italy to be vigilant in public spaces, but it was not a warning that they should avoid Italy.The US embassy in Rome did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Gentiloni stressed that the US embassy was alerting tourists visiting Italy to be vigilant in public spaces, but it was not a warning that they should avoid Italy.
Gentiloni also stressed that Italians could not be “prisoners” of the terror alert.Gentiloni also stressed that Italians could not be “prisoners” of the terror alert.
The warning comes just three weeks before Rome is expected to welcome an estimated 33 million pilgrims and tourists to the city to celebrate the pope’s year of mercy, also known as the jubilee, which begins on 8 December.The warning comes just three weeks before Rome is expected to welcome an estimated 33 million pilgrims and tourists to the city to celebrate the pope’s year of mercy, also known as the jubilee, which begins on 8 December.
Updated at 11.25am GMTUpdated at 11.25am GMT
10.32am GMT10:3210.32am GMT10:32
Twenty-one French lawmakers yesterday tabled an amendment that would have allowed the government to “control the entire press and all publications, as well radio stations, cinema showings and the theatre”.Twenty-one French lawmakers yesterday tabled an amendment that would have allowed the government to “control the entire press and all publications, as well radio stations, cinema showings and the theatre”.
The amendment, which was rejected, noted: “At the time of the [Charlie Hebdo] attacks in Paris in January, we noticed certain publications were wrong in their reports that could have endangered people’s lives.”The amendment, which was rejected, noted: “At the time of the [Charlie Hebdo] attacks in Paris in January, we noticed certain publications were wrong in their reports that could have endangered people’s lives.”
Lorsque nous aurons le temps, il faudra nous "intéresser" aux vingt et un signataires de cet amendement retiré... pic.twitter.com/MYplOBjWmCLorsque nous aurons le temps, il faudra nous "intéresser" aux vingt et un signataires de cet amendement retiré... pic.twitter.com/MYplOBjWmC
Updated at 12.16pm GMTUpdated at 12.16pm GMT
10.22am GMT10:2210.22am GMT10:22
Didier Paillard, the mayor of St-Denis, the scene of yesterday morning’s raids, has called on the town’s citizens to gather tonight in tribute to the victims of last Friday’s attacks.Didier Paillard, the mayor of St-Denis, the scene of yesterday morning’s raids, has called on the town’s citizens to gather tonight in tribute to the victims of last Friday’s attacks.
Residents are urged to gather at 6pm in front of the Stade de France, the stadium that was one of the targets of the attacks in Paris.Residents are urged to gather at 6pm in front of the Stade de France, the stadium that was one of the targets of the attacks in Paris.
“I would like to thank everyone in St-Denis who respected the security forces’ work, who did not give in to panic and showed the kind of solidarity that unites us all,” he said.“I would like to thank everyone in St-Denis who respected the security forces’ work, who did not give in to panic and showed the kind of solidarity that unites us all,” he said.
“Tomorrow, we must fight. We must fight radicalisation and we must fight hatred. More than ever, St-Denis is a town of the people, tolerant and open.“Tomorrow, we must fight. We must fight radicalisation and we must fight hatred. More than ever, St-Denis is a town of the people, tolerant and open.
“In France, as in St-Denis, the best response to barbarism is to confront it, together.”“In France, as in St-Denis, the best response to barbarism is to confront it, together.”
Updated at 10.23am GMTUpdated at 10.23am GMT
10.18am GMT10:1810.18am GMT10:18
Tougher security measures in Belgian clampdown on extremismTougher security measures in Belgian clampdown on extremism
Julian BorgerJulian Borger
The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Julian Borger, reports on the ramping up of Belgian efforts to tackle extremism, and their potential chilling effects.The Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Julian Borger, reports on the ramping up of Belgian efforts to tackle extremism, and their potential chilling effects.
Last night the Belgian government introduced a raft of some quite draconian new security measures in the wake of the Paris attacks and the consequent focus on Belgian inner cities as a crucible of jihadism.Last night the Belgian government introduced a raft of some quite draconian new security measures in the wake of the Paris attacks and the consequent focus on Belgian inner cities as a crucible of jihadism.
Belgians found to have gone to fight in Syria and returned will be imprisoned. The federal prosecutor’s office estimates there are currently 135 returned foreign fighters in the country, at liberty but under surveillance by the security services.Belgians found to have gone to fight in Syria and returned will be imprisoned. The federal prosecutor’s office estimates there are currently 135 returned foreign fighters in the country, at liberty but under surveillance by the security services.
Furthermore, anyone deemed by the security services to be a threat because of their radicalisation will have to wear an electronic tagging bracelet.Furthermore, anyone deemed by the security services to be a threat because of their radicalisation will have to wear an electronic tagging bracelet.
In terrorist cases, detention is to be extended from 24 hours to 72, necessitating an amendment to the constitution.In terrorist cases, detention is to be extended from 24 hours to 72, necessitating an amendment to the constitution.
And Belgium is not going to wait any longer for the long-delayed European decision on sharing of passenger of data for security purposes.And Belgium is not going to wait any longer for the long-delayed European decision on sharing of passenger of data for security purposes.
All passengers travelling on plane or high-speed train will have to register their details prior to departure. The measures authorise the deployment of 520 soldiers on Belgian territory, and an extra €400m is going to be spent on the country’s overstretched security services.All passengers travelling on plane or high-speed train will have to register their details prior to departure. The measures authorise the deployment of 520 soldiers on Belgian territory, and an extra €400m is going to be spent on the country’s overstretched security services.
As for Molenbeek, the Brussels district that is home to several wanted terrorists, it faces a clampdown summarised ominously as “prevention and repression”.As for Molenbeek, the Brussels district that is home to several wanted terrorists, it faces a clampdown summarised ominously as “prevention and repression”.
Here (in French) is a summary of the measures by the public broadcaster, RTBF.Here (in French) is a summary of the measures by the public broadcaster, RTBF.
Updated at 11.35am GMTUpdated at 11.35am GMT
9.56am GMT09:569.56am GMT09:56
Valls warns of 'chemical weapons' attackValls warns of 'chemical weapons' attack
The French prime minister, Manuel Valls, has warned the network of extremists who targeted Paris may use chemical and biological weapons in future, in a speech aimed at urging parliament to extend a state of emergency.The French prime minister, Manuel Valls, has warned the network of extremists who targeted Paris may use chemical and biological weapons in future, in a speech aimed at urging parliament to extend a state of emergency.
Valls presented a bill extending the state of emergency for another three months to the lower house of parliament, and it goes to the upper house Friday.Valls presented a bill extending the state of emergency for another three months to the lower house of parliament, and it goes to the upper house Friday.
“Terrorism hit France, not because of what it is doing in Iraq and Syria ... but for what it is,” he said.“Terrorism hit France, not because of what it is doing in Iraq and Syria ... but for what it is,” he said.
“We know that there could also be a risk of chemical or biological weapons.”“We know that there could also be a risk of chemical or biological weapons.”
Valls has also spoken further about the establishment of a new organisation to tackle radicalisation in France.Valls has also spoken further about the establishment of a new organisation to tackle radicalisation in France.
We are at war. But not the kind of war we are used to. No, this is a new type of war – from both outside and within – by which terror is the first goal and the first weapon ... It’s a war whose front is constantly changing and which finds its way into our daily life.We are at war. But not the kind of war we are used to. No, this is a new type of war – from both outside and within – by which terror is the first goal and the first weapon ... It’s a war whose front is constantly changing and which finds its way into our daily life.
This new type of war is an organised one, led by an army of criminals. What is new is the way it operates. The ways of killing are constantly changing.This new type of war is an organised one, led by an army of criminals. What is new is the way it operates. The ways of killing are constantly changing.
The morbid imagination of the commanders knows no bounds: guns, decapitations, human bombs and knives.The morbid imagination of the commanders knows no bounds: guns, decapitations, human bombs and knives.
We will establish a new organisation to counter attempts to radicalise young people. This will be absolutely necessary.We will establish a new organisation to counter attempts to radicalise young people. This will be absolutely necessary.
He added that it would focus on young people in France rather than those returning from Syria.He added that it would focus on young people in France rather than those returning from Syria.
Updated at 11.37am GMTUpdated at 11.37am GMT
9.50am GMT09:509.50am GMT09:50
Bilal Hadfi, one of the suicide bombers at the Stade de France, is the focus of the ongoing police raids in Brussels, which apparently aim to find his associates.Bilal Hadfi, one of the suicide bombers at the Stade de France, is the focus of the ongoing police raids in Brussels, which apparently aim to find his associates.
Hadfi had been fighting in Syria as recently as July, posting updates on Twitter under a pseudonym.Hadfi had been fighting in Syria as recently as July, posting updates on Twitter under a pseudonym.
Sara Stacino, his former teacher, told VRT television that Hadfi was “a nice student, motivated and interested in politics, more than the others”.Sara Stacino, his former teacher, told VRT television that Hadfi was “a nice student, motivated and interested in politics, more than the others”.
“He stopped listening to music, and he believed that women should be veiled,” Stacino said.“He stopped listening to music, and he believed that women should be veiled,” Stacino said.
After the January attacks on Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket that left 17 dead, Stacino said she alerted the school administrators about Hadfi. “But we all took a rather cautious stand,” she said.After the January attacks on Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket that left 17 dead, Stacino said she alerted the school administrators about Hadfi. “But we all took a rather cautious stand,” she said.
“We knew Hadfi had traveled to Syria and had come back,” a Belgian justice ministry spokeswoman told the Washington Post, adding that the phone line at his Molenbeek home had been tapped. “But when he wasn’t found to be home, they had to stop the tapping, according to the legal requirements,” she said.“We knew Hadfi had traveled to Syria and had come back,” a Belgian justice ministry spokeswoman told the Washington Post, adding that the phone line at his Molenbeek home had been tapped. “But when he wasn’t found to be home, they had to stop the tapping, according to the legal requirements,” she said.
Belgian public broadcaster RTBF reports police raids are ongoing in Brussels, Jette, Molenbeek and Uccle.Belgian public broadcaster RTBF reports police raids are ongoing in Brussels, Jette, Molenbeek and Uccle.
Updated at 11.38am GMTUpdated at 11.38am GMT
9.28am GMT09:289.28am GMT09:28
The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, has spoken this morning of a “policy of openness with Russia” in the fight against Islamic State.The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, has spoken this morning of a “policy of openness with Russia” in the fight against Islamic State.
“We think that Russia is sincere and that we need to use our collective strength,” he told French radio station France Inter.“We think that Russia is sincere and that we need to use our collective strength,” he told French radio station France Inter.
When [the Russian president] Putin first proposed working together it was at the beginning of September. We said, the president and myself, that it was a good idea as long as Russia concentrated its efforts on IS and not on the moderate forces.When [the Russian president] Putin first proposed working together it was at the beginning of September. We said, the president and myself, that it was a good idea as long as Russia concentrated its efforts on IS and not on the moderate forces.
It seems that there has now been a change in that sense. We are going to meet with President Putin next Thursday because we need to harness all our efforts in the fight against IS.It seems that there has now been a change in that sense. We are going to meet with President Putin next Thursday because we need to harness all our efforts in the fight against IS.
Updated at 12.19pm GMTUpdated at 12.19pm GMT
9.25am GMT09:259.25am GMT09:25
The French interior ministry and Paris prosecutor’s office have reiterated on Thursday morning that it remains unclear whether Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the suspected ringleader, has been killed, AP reports.The French interior ministry and Paris prosecutor’s office have reiterated on Thursday morning that it remains unclear whether Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the suspected ringleader, has been killed, AP reports.
Police had intelligence from tapped phone calls, surveillance and tip-offs, suggesting that Abu Oud was in St-Denis.Police had intelligence from tapped phone calls, surveillance and tip-offs, suggesting that Abu Oud was in St-Denis.
Neither he nor another fugitive, Salah Abdeslam, is among the eight people taken into custody last night.Neither he nor another fugitive, Salah Abdeslam, is among the eight people taken into custody last night.
Updated at 12.20pm GMTUpdated at 12.20pm GMT
9.00am GMT09:009.00am GMT09:00
Fresh raids in Brussels linked to Paris suicide bomberFresh raids in Brussels linked to Paris suicide bomber
Authorities in Belgium have launched six new raids in the Brussels region linked to Paris suicide bomber Bilal Hadfi, according to Associated Press, quoting an official in the Belgian federal prosecutor’s office.Authorities in Belgium have launched six new raids in the Brussels region linked to Paris suicide bomber Bilal Hadfi, according to Associated Press, quoting an official in the Belgian federal prosecutor’s office.
Molenbeek, the run-down suburb which has been at the heart of police investigations over the past days, is the focus of one of the raids, as well as other areas of Brussels.Molenbeek, the run-down suburb which has been at the heart of police investigations over the past days, is the focus of one of the raids, as well as other areas of Brussels.
Bilal Hadfi is thought to have been one of three attackers that blew themselves up at the Stade de France stadium, with raids centring on “his entourage”.Bilal Hadfi is thought to have been one of three attackers that blew themselves up at the Stade de France stadium, with raids centring on “his entourage”.
Updated at 12.22pm GMTUpdated at 12.22pm GMT
8.56am GMT08:568.56am GMT08:56
From Paris, the Daily Mirror’s Andy Lines describes how nervous the city still is, almost a week on from the attacks.From Paris, the Daily Mirror’s Andy Lines describes how nervous the city still is, almost a week on from the attacks.
Just seen snapshot how jittery Paris is. Someone left black suitcase by Cafe Botelli Rue de St Martin. Woman runs shouting into cafe. 1/2Just seen snapshot how jittery Paris is. Someone left black suitcase by Cafe Botelli Rue de St Martin. Woman runs shouting into cafe. 1/2
Owner calls police and orders customers to safer back of cafe. Armed cops arrive in 2 mins.Owner calls police and orders customers to safer back of cafe. Armed cops arrive in 2 mins.
8.54am GMT08:548.54am GMT08:54
The head of the French national police is due to say today that during the state of emergency, police officers will be allowed to carry and use their firearms even if they are off duty and not wearing bulletproof vests, French media reports.The head of the French national police is due to say today that during the state of emergency, police officers will be allowed to carry and use their firearms even if they are off duty and not wearing bulletproof vests, French media reports.
It will be voluntary and police who choose to carry a weapon will have to wear an armband to distinguish themselves, managing director Jean-Marc Falcone said.It will be voluntary and police who choose to carry a weapon will have to wear an armband to distinguish themselves, managing director Jean-Marc Falcone said.
Updated at 9.37am GMTUpdated at 9.37am GMT
8.44am GMT08:448.44am GMT08:44
'We may have a third terrorist under the rubble''We may have a third terrorist under the rubble'
Jon HenleyJon Henley
The entire third floor of the building at 8, rue du Corbillon in St-Denis collapsed during the seven-hour police operation on Wednesday, Georges Salinas, deputy commander of the BRI (police special intervention force) has told Europe 1.The entire third floor of the building at 8, rue du Corbillon in St-Denis collapsed during the seven-hour police operation on Wednesday, Georges Salinas, deputy commander of the BRI (police special intervention force) has told Europe 1.
He said that was why it was proving so difficult to identify the bodies “and could mean we may have a third terrorist under the rubble”.He said that was why it was proving so difficult to identify the bodies “and could mean we may have a third terrorist under the rubble”.
Updated at 9.03am GMTUpdated at 9.03am GMT
8.31am GMT08:318.31am GMT08:31
Belgian newspaper La Dernière Heure has more detail (in French) on Hasna Aitboulahcen, named by multiple reports as the female suicide bomber who died after detonating explosives in yesterday morning’s raids in St-Denis.Belgian newspaper La Dernière Heure has more detail (in French) on Hasna Aitboulahcen, named by multiple reports as the female suicide bomber who died after detonating explosives in yesterday morning’s raids in St-Denis.
The 26-year-old was reportedly the cousin of Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the suspected mastermind of last Friday’s attacks in Paris.The 26-year-old was reportedly the cousin of Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the suspected mastermind of last Friday’s attacks in Paris.
Police sources told French media yesterday that a female relative of Abu Oud had been under surveillance after police suspected she may have been sheltering him.Police sources told French media yesterday that a female relative of Abu Oud had been under surveillance after police suspected she may have been sheltering him.
Updated at 8.34am GMTUpdated at 8.34am GMT
8.21am GMT08:218.21am GMT08:21
Two Britons, believed to be two radical converts to Islam jailed for terror offences, have been detained in Hungary.Two Britons, believed to be two radical converts to Islam jailed for terror offences, have been detained in Hungary.
The two men were identified by Hungarian police only as Simon Jonathan K, 44, and Trevor B, 40, were arrested last week when they were stopped at the Lokoshaza border station while heading to Romania by train.The two men were identified by Hungarian police only as Simon Jonathan K, 44, and Trevor B, 40, were arrested last week when they were stopped at the Lokoshaza border station while heading to Romania by train.
They are understood to be Trevor Brooks, known as Abu Izzadeen, and Simon Keeler, jailed in 2008 for funding terrorism and inciting attacks against US and UK armed forces during the invasion of Iraq.They are understood to be Trevor Brooks, known as Abu Izzadeen, and Simon Keeler, jailed in 2008 for funding terrorism and inciting attacks against US and UK armed forces during the invasion of Iraq.
Izzadeen was a high-profile preacher in the mid-2000s, famous for heckling the British home secretary, John Reid, in front of television cameras in 2006. He barracked Reid at a public meeting in Leyton, east London, shouting: “How dare you come to a Muslim area when over a thousand Muslims have been arrested? You are an enemy of Islam and Muslims, you are a tyrant. Shame on all of us for sitting down and listening to him.”Izzadeen was a high-profile preacher in the mid-2000s, famous for heckling the British home secretary, John Reid, in front of television cameras in 2006. He barracked Reid at a public meeting in Leyton, east London, shouting: “How dare you come to a Muslim area when over a thousand Muslims have been arrested? You are an enemy of Islam and Muslims, you are a tyrant. Shame on all of us for sitting down and listening to him.”
Keeler, 44, was acquitted this July of planning to travel to Syria, after he was discovered by authorities in the back of a lorry in Dover.Keeler, 44, was acquitted this July of planning to travel to Syria, after he was discovered by authorities in the back of a lorry in Dover.
The two men were detained for travelling without proper documents and were being held pending extradition to Britain.The two men were detained for travelling without proper documents and were being held pending extradition to Britain.
A Scotland Yard spokeswoman said: “On Sunday, 15 November officers from the Met’s counter-terrorism command were informed that two UK nationals had been detained in Hungary.A Scotland Yard spokeswoman said: “On Sunday, 15 November officers from the Met’s counter-terrorism command were informed that two UK nationals had been detained in Hungary.
“After further inquiries, UK officers applied for arrest warrants for both men for breaches of notification requirements under part four of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008, which were granted at Westminster magistrates court on Monday 16 November. Inquiries continue.”“After further inquiries, UK officers applied for arrest warrants for both men for breaches of notification requirements under part four of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008, which were granted at Westminster magistrates court on Monday 16 November. Inquiries continue.”
Their arrests are not thought to be linked to the Paris attacks on Friday.Their arrests are not thought to be linked to the Paris attacks on Friday.
Updated at 9.14am GMTUpdated at 9.14am GMT
8.05am GMT08:058.05am GMT08:05
There are still doubts as to whether Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the alleged mastermind of the Paris attacks, was the man killed in the raid on the St-Denis apartment.There are still doubts as to whether Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the alleged mastermind of the Paris attacks, was the man killed in the raid on the St-Denis apartment.
Last night, the Belgian justice minister, Koen Geens, was the latest senior official to urge caution.Last night, the Belgian justice minister, Koen Geens, was the latest senior official to urge caution.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting late on Wednesday night, Geens said Belgian Abu Oud was “not among those arrested or those who have been identified.”Speaking after a cabinet meeting late on Wednesday night, Geens said Belgian Abu Oud was “not among those arrested or those who have been identified.”
French forensic investigators are apparently having difficulty formally identifying the remains of a man and a female suicide bomber, because the badly damaged building in the Paris suburb where they died is at risk of collapse.French forensic investigators are apparently having difficulty formally identifying the remains of a man and a female suicide bomber, because the badly damaged building in the Paris suburb where they died is at risk of collapse.
Updated at 9.17am GMTUpdated at 9.17am GMT
7.55am GMT07:557.55am GMT07:55
The UK Foreign Office has advised British schools against upcoming trips to France, in line with advice given by the French authorities after the Paris attacks.The UK Foreign Office has advised British schools against upcoming trips to France, in line with advice given by the French authorities after the Paris attacks.
As part of the national state of emergency, the French ministry of education has cancelled all school trips within France by French schools until [after] Sunday,” the Foreign Office said.As part of the national state of emergency, the French ministry of education has cancelled all school trips within France by French schools until [after] Sunday,” the Foreign Office said.
This includes excursions to cultural sites [theatres, museums, etc] and travel by school groups on public transport.This includes excursions to cultural sites [theatres, museums, etc] and travel by school groups on public transport.
These cancellations don’t specifically include foreign school parties, but the French ministry of education has advised foreign school groups to avoid travelling to France until after 22 November.These cancellations don’t specifically include foreign school parties, but the French ministry of education has advised foreign school groups to avoid travelling to France until after 22 November.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office recommends that British schools planning to take groups to France between now and 22 November follow the French ministry of education’s advice not to travel.The Foreign and Commonwealth Office recommends that British schools planning to take groups to France between now and 22 November follow the French ministry of education’s advice not to travel.
The French ministry of education has advised that school trips already under way in France may continue as originally planned.The French ministry of education has advised that school trips already under way in France may continue as originally planned.
This note is being given out at London’s St Pancras station, where the Eurostar from Paris terminates.This note is being given out at London’s St Pancras station, where the Eurostar from Paris terminates.
Note being given out at St Pancras to all arriving pic.twitter.com/zOZfyH5WF2Note being given out at St Pancras to all arriving pic.twitter.com/zOZfyH5WF2
Updated at 7.56am GMTUpdated at 7.56am GMT
7.21am GMT07:217.21am GMT07:21
Latest summaryLatest summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
I’m handing over the live blog now to my colleague Jessica Elgot in London. Thanks for reading.I’m handing over the live blog now to my colleague Jessica Elgot in London. Thanks for reading.
Updated at 12.23pm GMTUpdated at 12.23pm GMT
7.10am GMT07:107.10am GMT07:10
The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, has been speaking to France Info radio.The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, has been speaking to France Info radio.
He said he wanted to pay tribute to the forces involved in the raid in St-Denis against the terror suspects, whom he labelled “monsters”.He said he wanted to pay tribute to the forces involved in the raid in St-Denis against the terror suspects, whom he labelled “monsters”.
He did not say whether the dead suspect is in fact Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the alleged ringleader of the Paris plot, but said that if Abu Oud had managed to return to France from Syria, it showed that there were faults in the entire European system of checks:He did not say whether the dead suspect is in fact Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud, the alleged ringleader of the Paris plot, but said that if Abu Oud had managed to return to France from Syria, it showed that there were faults in the entire European system of checks:
Laurent Fabius : "Si Abaaoud a pu circuler depuis la Syrie jusqu'en France, c'est qu'il y a des failles dans l'ensemble du système européen"Laurent Fabius : "Si Abaaoud a pu circuler depuis la Syrie jusqu'en France, c'est qu'il y a des failles dans l'ensemble du système européen"
But he rebuffed suggestions that the attacks were a response to France’s role in the anti-Isis coalition in Syria, saying the reverse was true:But he rebuffed suggestions that the attacks were a response to France’s role in the anti-Isis coalition in Syria, saying the reverse was true:
Laurent Fabius : "C'est parce qu'ils veulent nous détruire que nous sommes en Syrie. Il ne faut pas inverser les choses"Laurent Fabius : "C'est parce qu'ils veulent nous détruire que nous sommes en Syrie. Il ne faut pas inverser les choses"
6.51am GMT06:516.51am GMT06:51
The UK national counter-terrorism security office (Nactso) has published fresh advice in the wake of the Paris atrocities.The UK national counter-terrorism security office (Nactso) has published fresh advice in the wake of the Paris atrocities.
It says those caught up in terrorist attacks should run or hide rather than lie down.It says those caught up in terrorist attacks should run or hide rather than lie down.
The guidance said those caught up in attacks such as that on the Bataclan music venue should “escape if you can”, “insist others leave with you” and “leave belongings behind”.The guidance said those caught up in attacks such as that on the Bataclan music venue should “escape if you can”, “insist others leave with you” and “leave belongings behind”.
After finding a hiding place, victims should “be quiet [and] silence your phone”.After finding a hiding place, victims should “be quiet [and] silence your phone”.
Read more here:Read more here:
Related: 'Run, don't play dead': UK counter-terrorism office issues advice after Paris attacksRelated: 'Run, don't play dead': UK counter-terrorism office issues advice after Paris attacks
6.43am GMT06:436.43am GMT06:43
This graphic by AFP plots the ages of the 113 victims of the attacks whose ages are known. The vast majority were younger than 40, the youngest just 17.This graphic by AFP plots the ages of the 113 victims of the attacks whose ages are known. The vast majority were younger than 40, the youngest just 17.
Attentats de Paris : la jeunesse assassinée #AFP pic.twitter.com/WXqPGvWbkmAttentats de Paris : la jeunesse assassinée #AFP pic.twitter.com/WXqPGvWbkm
6.37am GMT06:376.37am GMT06:37
France’s National Assembly is due to vote today on the state of emergency declared after last week’s attacks.France’s National Assembly is due to vote today on the state of emergency declared after last week’s attacks.
Politicians will vote on whether to extend the law by three months to February, and expand it to allow suspects to be placed under house arrest.Politicians will vote on whether to extend the law by three months to February, and expand it to allow suspects to be placed under house arrest.
The Senate is expected to vote on the same measure on Friday.The Senate is expected to vote on the same measure on Friday.
Related: France under first nationwide state of emergency since 1961Related: France under first nationwide state of emergency since 1961
6.13am GMT06:136.13am GMT06:13
Latest summaryLatest summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Here is what we know about the ongoing investigation as France wakes up on Thursday morning:Here is what we know about the ongoing investigation as France wakes up on Thursday morning:
Updated at 7.23am GMTUpdated at 7.23am GMT
6.03am GMT06:036.03am GMT06:03
Tensions are high in France, which remains in an official state of emergency.Tensions are high in France, which remains in an official state of emergency.
On Wednesday night, a teacher at a Jewish school in the French city of Marseille was harassed in the street and then stabbed by three people professing support for Islamic State, prosecutors have said.On Wednesday night, a teacher at a Jewish school in the French city of Marseille was harassed in the street and then stabbed by three people professing support for Islamic State, prosecutors have said.
Three people on two scooters, one of them wearing an Isis T-shirt, approached the teacher and showed him a picture on a mobile phone of Mohamed Merah, a homegrown Islamist militant who killed seven people in a series of attacks in southern France in 2012.Three people on two scooters, one of them wearing an Isis T-shirt, approached the teacher and showed him a picture on a mobile phone of Mohamed Merah, a homegrown Islamist militant who killed seven people in a series of attacks in southern France in 2012.
The man was not seriously injured.The man was not seriously injured.
Related: Jewish teacher stabbed in Marseille street by trio praising Islamic StateRelated: Jewish teacher stabbed in Marseille street by trio praising Islamic State
5.43am GMT05:435.43am GMT05:43
On Wednesday evening, hundreds of Belgians congregated in Molenbeek – home to at least two of the Paris attackers, the Abdeslam brothers Salah and Brahim, and labelled Belgium’s breeding ground for extremists – to hold a vigil in remembrance of the victims of the Paris attacks.On Wednesday evening, hundreds of Belgians congregated in Molenbeek – home to at least two of the Paris attackers, the Abdeslam brothers Salah and Brahim, and labelled Belgium’s breeding ground for extremists – to hold a vigil in remembrance of the victims of the Paris attacks.
Mohamed Abdeslam, the brother of the two suspects, took part in the vigil. He was released by Belgian police on Monday after several hours in custody and said he did not know where his fugitive brother is.Mohamed Abdeslam, the brother of the two suspects, took part in the vigil. He was released by Belgian police on Monday after several hours in custody and said he did not know where his fugitive brother is.
5.16am GMT05:165.16am GMT05:16
A Facebook post written by Antoine Leiris, whose wife, Hélène Muyal, was one of 89 people who died in the Bataclan theatre, was shared more than 200,000 times in the wake of the attacks.A Facebook post written by Antoine Leiris, whose wife, Hélène Muyal, was one of 89 people who died in the Bataclan theatre, was shared more than 200,000 times in the wake of the attacks.
Leiris’ original post, in French, is here. He writes to the terrorists who killed his wife:Leiris’ original post, in French, is here. He writes to the terrorists who killed his wife:
Friday night, you took an exceptional life – the love of my life, the mother of my son – but you will not have my hatred …Friday night, you took an exceptional life – the love of my life, the mother of my son – but you will not have my hatred …
We are just two, my son and me, but we are stronger than all the armies in the world. I don’t have any more time to devote to you, I have to join Melvil who is waking up from his nap.We are just two, my son and me, but we are stronger than all the armies in the world. I don’t have any more time to devote to you, I have to join Melvil who is waking up from his nap.
He is barely 17 months old. He will eat his meals as usual, and then we are going to play as usual, and for his whole life this little boy will threaten you by being happy and free. Because no, you will not have his hatred either.He is barely 17 months old. He will eat his meals as usual, and then we are going to play as usual, and for his whole life this little boy will threaten you by being happy and free. Because no, you will not have his hatred either.
BBC News has now filmed Leiris in Paris reading the letter aloud. You can watch it here:BBC News has now filmed Leiris in Paris reading the letter aloud. You can watch it here:
5.01am GMT05:015.01am GMT05:01
On Wednesday, Isis said it had executed two hostages, one Chinese and one Norwegian, after earlier demanding ransoms for the two men.On Wednesday, Isis said it had executed two hostages, one Chinese and one Norwegian, after earlier demanding ransoms for the two men.
On Thursday, China confirmed the murder of Fan Jinghui, saying he was was “cruelly killed” and promising to “bring to justice” those responsible.On Thursday, China confirmed the murder of Fan Jinghui, saying he was was “cruelly killed” and promising to “bring to justice” those responsible.
Chinese president Xi Jinping said:Chinese president Xi Jinping said:
Terrorism is the enemy of all human beings.Terrorism is the enemy of all human beings.
China firmly opposes all kinds of terrorist ideology and will resolutely fight any criminal terrorist activity that challenges the baseline of humanity.China firmly opposes all kinds of terrorist ideology and will resolutely fight any criminal terrorist activity that challenges the baseline of humanity.
The Norwegian prime minister, Erna Solberg, had earlier confirmed the killing of Norwegian hostage Ole Johan Grimsgaard-Ofstad, calling it “painful for the whole country”.The Norwegian prime minister, Erna Solberg, had earlier confirmed the killing of Norwegian hostage Ole Johan Grimsgaard-Ofstad, calling it “painful for the whole country”.
4.44am GMT04:444.44am GMT04:44
Forensic tests will need to be carried out to identify the two bodies found inside the apartment at the centre of the ferocious firefight in St-Denis on Wednesday.Forensic tests will need to be carried out to identify the two bodies found inside the apartment at the centre of the ferocious firefight in St-Denis on Wednesday.
Damage to the building and the bodies found inside made it impossible to know exactly how many had been killed and who they were, the Paris prosecutor François Molins said.Damage to the building and the bodies found inside made it impossible to know exactly how many had been killed and who they were, the Paris prosecutor François Molins said.
“I am not able to give you a precise number and identity of those killed. There are at least two dead and verifications will likely take longer than expected,” Molins added.“I am not able to give you a precise number and identity of those killed. There are at least two dead and verifications will likely take longer than expected,” Molins added.
“A new team of terrorists was neutralised and all indications are that given their arms, their organisational structure and their determination, the commando could have struck.”“A new team of terrorists was neutralised and all indications are that given their arms, their organisational structure and their determination, the commando could have struck.”
The woman who died when her suicide vest detonated was named by sources as as Hasna Aitboulahcen, born in 1989 and a cousin of Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud.The woman who died when her suicide vest detonated was named by sources as as Hasna Aitboulahcen, born in 1989 and a cousin of Abdel-Hamid Abu Oud.
This detailed report from St-Denis says police officers spoke to the woman before the explosion:This detailed report from St-Denis says police officers spoke to the woman before the explosion:
The police shouted twice: “Where’s your friend?” Each time she replied, her tone frantic: “It’s not my friend.” A second later there was a dramatic explosion.The police shouted twice: “Where’s your friend?” Each time she replied, her tone frantic: “It’s not my friend.” A second later there was a dramatic explosion.
One eyewitness, Christian, 20, gave an account to Le Parisien newspaper. He said: “During a 10- or 15-minute lull in the shooting I heard a woman shouting: ‘Help, help, help me!’ The police asked her to identify herself and to show herself. She showed her hands, but she didn’t reveal her face. She withdrew them and then put them up again several times. They shouted at her: ‘Keep your hands in the air!’ They told her: ‘We’re going to shoot.’One eyewitness, Christian, 20, gave an account to Le Parisien newspaper. He said: “During a 10- or 15-minute lull in the shooting I heard a woman shouting: ‘Help, help, help me!’ The police asked her to identify herself and to show herself. She showed her hands, but she didn’t reveal her face. She withdrew them and then put them up again several times. They shouted at her: ‘Keep your hands in the air!’ They told her: ‘We’re going to shoot.’
“The shooting resumed. The police were firing from the roof of the building opposite. Suddenly there was an enormous explosion [from inside the flat]. It was probably the woman who blew herself up. The windows shattered.”“The shooting resumed. The police were firing from the roof of the building opposite. Suddenly there was an enormous explosion [from inside the flat]. It was probably the woman who blew herself up. The windows shattered.”
4.28am GMT04:284.28am GMT04:28
Ben DohertyBen Doherty
Extraordinary footage of an Isis gunman rampaging through a Paris street has emerged, in which it appears one woman’s life is saved when the killer’s firearm jams as he tries to shoot her, my colleague Ben Doherty reports:Extraordinary footage of an Isis gunman rampaging through a Paris street has emerged, in which it appears one woman’s life is saved when the killer’s firearm jams as he tries to shoot her, my colleague Ben Doherty reports:
The video – CCTV footage obtained by the Daily Mail – shows the scene inside a restaurant in the seconds running up to and including the attack.The video – CCTV footage obtained by the Daily Mail – shows the scene inside a restaurant in the seconds running up to and including the attack.
The gunman in the footage is reported to be fugitive jihadi Salah Abdeslam, who remains on the run six days after the attacks across Paris.The gunman in the footage is reported to be fugitive jihadi Salah Abdeslam, who remains on the run six days after the attacks across Paris.
At the denouement of the assault, the gunman is seen pointing what is believed to be an AK-47 machine gun at the ground where a woman is crouched under a table.At the denouement of the assault, the gunman is seen pointing what is believed to be an AK-47 machine gun at the ground where a woman is crouched under a table.
He appears to squeeze the trigger, once and then again. But the weapon does not fire, either jammed or out of ammunition. The shooter runs off into the street, to a waiting car.He appears to squeeze the trigger, once and then again. But the weapon does not fire, either jammed or out of ammunition. The shooter runs off into the street, to a waiting car.
The woman then stands, looks around, and flees into the night.The woman then stands, looks around, and flees into the night.
You can read the full report here:You can read the full report here:
Related: Video shows woman escape point blank shooting by gunman in Paris attacksRelated: Video shows woman escape point blank shooting by gunman in Paris attacks
4.16am GMT04:164.16am GMT04:16
Bill de Blasio: 'New York will not be intimidated'Bill de Blasio: 'New York will not be intimidated'
The mayor of New York city, Bill de Blasio, has just appeared in Times Square with the New York police commissioner, Bill Bratton, to talk to the press about an Isis video publicised on Wednesday that threatened an attack on the city.The mayor of New York city, Bill de Blasio, has just appeared in Times Square with the New York police commissioner, Bill Bratton, to talk to the press about an Isis video publicised on Wednesday that threatened an attack on the city.
It is after 11pm in New York, an unusual time for a press conference, but the intention was, de Blasio said, to show that “the people of New York city will not be intimidated”.It is after 11pm in New York, an unusual time for a press conference, but the intention was, de Blasio said, to show that “the people of New York city will not be intimidated”.
He said the video was an “obvious attempt to intimidate the people of New York city”, but stressed there was “no specific or credible threat”.He said the video was an “obvious attempt to intimidate the people of New York city”, but stressed there was “no specific or credible threat”.
Bratton said there was “nothing new” in the video, which he described as a hastily put-together “mishmash” of earlier propaganda.Bratton said there was “nothing new” in the video, which he described as a hastily put-together “mishmash” of earlier propaganda.
He agreed that New York “remains one of the top terrorist targets in the world” but insisted “no city in America is better prepared” against potential attack.He agreed that New York “remains one of the top terrorist targets in the world” but insisted “no city in America is better prepared” against potential attack.
4.04am GMT04:044.04am GMT04:04
Opening summaryOpening summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
Welcome to continuing live coverage of the aftermath of the raid on St-Denis, which Paris prosecutor François Molins said had successfully “neutralised” a terrorist cell.Welcome to continuing live coverage of the aftermath of the raid on St-Denis, which Paris prosecutor François Molins said had successfully “neutralised” a terrorist cell.
French police fired nearly 5,000 rounds during a ferocious firefight at dawn on Wednesday in the town just north of the capital.French police fired nearly 5,000 rounds during a ferocious firefight at dawn on Wednesday in the town just north of the capital.
Here is how things stand as France wakes up on Thursday morning:Here is how things stand as France wakes up on Thursday morning:
Updated at 6.18am GMTUpdated at 6.18am GMT