The French National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor (PNAT) has reported that 35 prisoners, who were incarcerated for Islamist terrorism offenses, are expected to be released in 2026. This announcement comes from the PNAT’s chief, Olivier Christen, who provided this information to Le Monde. Since 2021, a total of 339 individuals convicted for similar crimes have been released, highlighting a growing trend in the release of such detainees, with 46 released in 2025 alone.

One significant case included Brahim Bahrir, who was involved in a violent incident at the Arc de Triomphe, where he threatened gendarmes with a knife. He was shot and died from his injuries shortly after his release from prison. Bahrir had a history as a terrorist, having been convicted in Belgium in 2013 for stabbing two police officers. His release had been less than two months prior to the violent episode, indicating concerns about the management and monitoring of released detainees in France.

The increasing number of releases raises alarms among security officials and the public, prompting discussions about the adequacy of reintegration processes and the ongoing threat posed by these individuals. The revelations bring to light the challenges faced by the French justice system in handling cases of Islamist extremism and the implications for national security as individuals with violent backgrounds are reintegrated into society.