Laurence des Cars, the director of the Louvre Museum in Paris, has resigned following a high-profile theft of crown jewels worth $102 million. The resignation comes just months after a daring robbery where thieves executed the heist in under eight minutes at the world’s most visited museum. The incident has raised serious questions about security at the museum, which has drawn international attention and widespread criticism.

French President Emmanuel Macron accepted des Cars' resignation and praised her for taking responsibility at a time when the museum needs stability and renewed vigor, particularly regarding major projects focused on security improvements and modernization. Macron also hinted at a possible new role for des Cars in fostering cooperation among major museums, emphasizing her contributions during her tenure.

The theft and subsequent fallout highlight the ongoing challenges faced by cultural institutions in protecting invaluable artifacts. Critics of the museum's security measures have labeled the incident an astonishing embarrassment, suggesting that it is indicative of broader issues within the museum's management and operations that need urgent attention to restore public confidence in its ability to safeguard its treasures.