Moroccan Man Sparks Outrage After Lighting Cigarette at Arc de Triomphe

UPDATE: A 47-year-old Moroccan man is facing imminent deportation after igniting national outrage by lighting a cigarette using the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The shocking incident occurred on August 5, 2025, and was captured on video, quickly spreading across social media, inciting public fury.

The suspect was seen climbing over a chain barrier to light his cigarette, a move widely condemned as disrespectful to the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for France. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau took to social media platform X, stating, “This unworthy and deplorable act undermines the memory of those who died for France.”

The man, a homeless individual, has been charged with “violating a burial site, tomb, cinerary urn, or monument erected in memory of the dead.” This serious offence carries the potential for a one-year prison sentence and a fine of up to €15,000. Local media, including Le Figaro, report that he is well-known to authorities, with 21 prior entries in France’s criminal records, including offences such as theft and public violence.

Following the incident, Patricia Miralles, France’s Minister for War Veterans, expressed her outrage, declaring, “What happened is not a mere misstep, but a desecration. France will never tolerate the tarnishing of the memory of those who died for her. Never.”

The man’s residence permit is set to be revoked, and he has acknowledged his actions after initially denying responsibility. The public reaction has been swift and severe, with many calling for harsher penalties for such disrespectful acts towards national symbols.

As this story develops, authorities are expected to take decisive actions against the suspect. The incident raises broader questions about respect for national monuments and the consequences of actions that challenge public sentiments. Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing situation.