Serious Security Incident Near Israeli Embassy Following Suspicious Envelope at French Embassy

Overview of Recent Security Developments

A day of security concerns for Israeli diplomatic missions unfolded after a suspicious envelope was received at the Israeli Embassy in France, followed hours later by gunfire near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul. The Israeli Foreign Ministry reported these incidents on May 9, 2025, highlighting the heightened security challenges faced by Israeli representatives worldwide.

Details of the Incidents

Suspicious Envelope at the Embassy in France

Earlier in the day, authorities at the Israeli Embassy in France reported receiving an unusual envelope. Local security forces, in coordination with the Israeli security team, examined and handled the envelope. Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported as a result of this incident.

Gunfire Near the Consulate in Istanbul

Shortly after the envelope incident, a more serious security breach occurred near the Israeli consulate in Istanbul, where gunfire was detected targeting a nearby building. Local security forces quickly apprehended the shooter. Similar to the earlier incident in France, there were no casualties or damage reported to the Israeli diplomatic premises.

Contextual Background on Security Threats

These two incidents come in the wake of another serious event that occurred two weeks prior, when an armed individual attempted to breach the Israeli Embassy in London with a knife. Local security managed to deter the assailant and prevent any harm to individuals or property.

Official Responses

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen condemned the recent sequence of attacks and attempts against Israeli diplomatic missions around the world, asserting that terrorism seeks to strike at Israel wherever it can. In a statement on social media, he praised the resilience of Foreign Ministry employees who represent Israel amid ongoing and personal security challenges. “We will not be deterred and will continue to represent Israel with pride,” he affirmed.

These incidents underscore the persistent threats to Israeli diplomatic representatives globally and highlight the need for continued vigilance and security measures in the face of evolving dangers