French authorities have begun deportation proceedings against a Moroccan migrant after he was filmed lighting a cigarette from the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Paris. The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, provoked outrage across France and led to the immediate revocation of the man's residency permit. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the act as an insult to the memory of those who died for France, emphasizing the government's commitment to upholding respect for national symbols. The man, who has a lengthy criminal record, now faces charges for desecrating a monument and could also face a fine or prison time. The case has reignited debates over immigration policy and respect for French heritage sites.

Original article source: https://www.ynetnews.com/article/s1ti3pzolg
Source Id: 2025-08-798721005