Islamist terrorism poses a long-term threat, warns French intelligence chief
- Nicolas Lerner has extensive experience in French intelligence, having held several key positions since 2004.
- France has been heavily targeted by jihadist terrorism over the last decade, prompting concerns about various extremist threats.
- Lerner concluded that Islamist terrorism is a long-term challenge that requires vigilance and coordinated responses from society.
In an interview with Le Monde, Nicolas Lerner, the head of the General Directorate of External Security (DGSE) in France, addressed the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism, focusing especially on the risks of Islamist terrorism. Lerner has been a key figure in the French intelligence community since joining the Interior Ministry in 2004 and has held various important positions, culminating in his appointment as the head of DGSE on January 9, 2024. His wide-ranging experience in intelligence and national security has equipped him with unique insights into the evolving nature of terrorist threats, particularly in France, which has been significantly targeted over the last decade. Lerner suggested that France has consistently been the Western nation most affected by jihadist terrorism, a reality he attributes to various geopolitical and social factors. He emphasized the importance of vigilance against diverse threats, including those from ultra-right and ultra-left groups, in addition to jihadism. The increasing complexity of the threat landscape necessitates a comprehensive understanding of how these different forms of extremism can intersect and influence one another. Furthermore, Lerner underscored that the threat of Islamist terrorism is not just a transient issue but something that societies will have to contend with over the long term. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts among intelligence agencies, law enforcement, government bodies, and the public to effectively combat this persistent threat. Such cooperation is crucial in developing preventive measures and response strategies that can adapt to the evolving tactics employed by terrorist organizations. As Lerner reflects on the past and current state of terrorism in France, his insights call for a renewed commitment to security, resilience in society, and the necessity of being prepared for a future where terrorism remains a critical concern. The French public, as well as international counterparts, will need to remain aware of the implications of such threats and support robust counter-terrorism initiatives moving forward.