Authorities in Paris reported the discovery of pig heads outside several mosques on Tuesday, prompting widespread condemnation. This incident is particularly sensitive in France, which has the largest Muslim population in Europe, exceeding 6 million. For Muslims, pigs are considered impure, making this act deeply offensive.

Paris Police Chief Laurent Nunez announced that an investigation has been launched. He stated, "An inquiry has been immediately opened. Everything is being done to find the perpetrators of these despicable acts." The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed that pig heads were found in front of at least two mosques in the city and one in a nearby suburb. Additionally, a pig head was discovered in a suitcase outside a mosque in northern Paris.

At one of the locations, the name "Macron" was scrawled in blue, seemingly referencing French President Emmanuel Macron, who is currently facing political and fiscal challenges. Nunez indicated that police are not ruling out the possibility of finding more pig heads, as they continue their investigation.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the actions, labeling them as "outrageous" and "absolutely unacceptable." He expressed his desire for Muslim citizens to practice their faith without fear, stating, "I want our Muslim compatriots to be able to practice their faith in peace. I understand that they feel hurt."

Chems-Eddine Hafiz, the rector of the Grand Mosque of Paris, described the incidents as "Islamophobic acts" and a troubling sign of rising anti-Muslim sentiment. He called for increased awareness and national solidarity to combat this dangerous trend.

The recent incidents come amid a reported increase in anti-Muslim hatred and antisemitism across several European Union countries, particularly since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza in October 2023. The situation has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of minority communities in France.