Rima Hassan Arrested in France Over Retweet Linked to 1972 Airport Attack

French authorities have taken Rima Hassan into custody over a social media post that has drawn scrutiny for its reference to a deadly attack in Israel more than five decades ago, according to statements from political allies and French media reports.

The arrest was disclosed by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, a senior figure in the far-left party France Unbowed, who said Hassan was detained in connection with a repost made in March. Writing on X, he described the move as an example of what he called “politics police,” and questioned the scope of parliamentary protections in France.

Hassan, who sits in the European Parliament, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Her lawyer also could not be reached.

French newspaper Le Parisien and other outlets reported that investigators suspect the March 26 post could be interpreted as supporting terrorism. The message, since deleted, referenced a statement by an individual convicted over the 1972 attack at Lod airport in Tel Aviv.

That assault, carried out by the Japanese Red Army, left 26 people dead and remains one of the most notorious incidents involving the group. According to the reports, Hassan’s post quoted the convicted individual as attempting to justify the attack by citing what he described as oppression in the Palestinian territories.

The circumstances of the arrest, including how long Hassan may be held or whether formal charges will follow, have not been publicly detailed. French authorities have not issued an immediate statement clarifying their position.

Mélenchon’s comments point to a broader political dispute over how France interprets and enforces laws related to speech and terrorism, particularly when it involves elected officials. His remarks also suggest unease within his party about the legal exposure of its members for statements made online.

The case comes at a time when public debate in France remains sensitive around issues tied to historical violence, political expression, and the boundaries of lawful speech. For now, the situation appears to be evolving, with key details still emerging as officials review the matter.

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As of Friday, there was no indication from Hassan herself on how she intends to respond once released or whether she will challenge the grounds of her detention.