A Palestinian suspect has been handed over to French authorities in connection with the deadly 1982 attack on a Jewish restaurant in Paris. The move comes decades after the incident shocked the country and left victims’ families waiting for justice.
The suspect, Hicham Harb, arrived at Villacoublay air base near Paris, where officials immediately placed him in detention, according to France’s anti-terror prosecutors.
Details of the 1982 Rue des Rosiers Attack
The attack took place at the Jo Goldenberg restaurant in Paris’s historic Marais district. Armed attackers threw a grenade into the crowded restaurant before opening fire with machine guns.
Six people lost their lives, and more than 20 others suffered injuries. Panic spread as customers tried to escape the violence.
Despite the severity of the attack, no one has been convicted for the killings so far.
Suspects and Legal Developments
In 2024, France’s highest court ordered a trial for six suspects linked to the attack. Three of them are still abroad, reportedly living in the West Bank, Jordan, and Kuwait.
Two suspects are already in France. Norwegian citizen Abou Zayed is accused of being one of the gunmen, though his lawyers deny any involvement. Another suspect, Hazza Taha, is believed to have helped store the weapons used in the attack.
Harb’s family has raised concerns about his extradition. His son claims the process was unlawful and fears that he may not receive a fair trial. However, French courts rejected requests to move the case to a jury trial. Instead, judges in a special court will handle it.
Links to Abu Nidal’s Militant Group
Investigators believe the attack was carried out by a faction linked to Abu Nidal, a well-known militant leader. His group had broken away from the Palestine Liberation Organization and was responsible for several violent incidents in the 1980s.
The organization carried out attacks worldwide, including plane hijackings, assassinations, and shootings. These actions led to hundreds of deaths during that period.
France Pushes for Justice After Four Decades
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot recently met families of the victims. He assured them that authorities remain committed to holding those responsible accountable.
He emphasized that France continues to fight against terrorism and anti-Semitism. After more than 40 years, officials say this case could finally bring long-awaited justice.
