If you’re not a news buff, here is a quick breakdown of what’s happening in Paris on Friday (Nov 13).
What happened?
128 people were killed – one of Europe’s deadliest massacres in recent years. In addition to the people killed, 180 others were injured, according to the Paris Police Prefecture. More than half of them are in critical condition.
Eight terrorists are dead following the attacks
Where did the attacks occur?
Attacks occurred at six sites in the city including the following”
1.) Most of the fatalities occurred at the Bataclan, a concert hall where fans were listening to American rock band Eagles of Death Metal when the blasts started. Police said the bodies of more than 110 victims remained inside.
2.) Explosions also hit near the Stade de France outside Paris, home of the national sports teams, as France played world chamption Germany. Four people died in those attacks, authorities said.
3.) Other victims were killed by gunfire when bars and restaurants were bustling with residents and tourists.
Who did this?
ISIS claimed responsibility for gunfire and blasts that targeted six sites Friday night in Paris.
In an online statement distributed by supporters Saturday, the terror group said eight militants wearing explosive belts and armed with machine guns attacked precisely selected areas in the French capital.
“Let France and those who walk in its path know that they will remain on the top of the list of targets of the Islamic State,” the statement added, referring to the attacks at the Bataclan concert hall and several districts in Paris.
Where does France stand on this?
French President Francois Hollande called the murder spree “an act of war.” Putting his nation’s security at its highest level, Hollande vowed to hit back against the militants and declared three days of national mourning.
Where does the White House stand?
President Barack Obama spoke to Hollande and offered him support and condolences. The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are closely monitoring the situation, but there is no credible or specific threat in the United States, a U.S. government official said.
“The two leaders pledged to work together, and with nations around the world, to defeat the scourge of terrorism,” the White House said in a statement.
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