French authorities have detained a key suspect linked to the deadly 1982 attack on a Jewish restaurant in Paris, marking a significant development in a decades-old case.
The suspect, Hicham Harb, was extradited by the Palestinian National Authority following a formal request from France’s National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office.
Harb, whose real name is Mahmoud Khader Abed Adra, is accused of helping direct the attack on Rue des Rosiers and participating as one of the gunmen.
The attack targeted the Jo Goldenberg restaurant in the historic Marais district. Gunmen threw a grenade into the crowded restaurant before opening fire, killing six people and injuring more than 20 others.
After arriving at Villacoublay Air Base, Harb was taken into custody. Authorities say the extradition represents a major step toward justice in a case where no one has yet been convicted.
French President Emmanuel Macron thanked Palestinian authorities for their cooperation. He described the move as a strong example of international judicial collaboration.
The attack has long been linked to a militant group associated with Abu Nidal, whose organization was responsible for several violent incidents during the 1980s.
France’s highest court, the Court of Cassation, previously ordered a trial for multiple suspects connected to the case. Several individuals remain outside France, including some believed to be in the West Bank, Jordan, and Kuwait.
The extradition of Harb could help advance legal proceedings and bring renewed focus to one of the most serious attacks in France’s modern history.
Authorities continue to investigate the case as they pursue accountability for the victims and their families after more than four decades.
