Paris Investigates Possible Foreign Attack on Local Elections

A new probe has been launched in Paris to determine whether a foreign entity attempted to sabotage the candidacies of three left‑wing mayoral hopefuls. The candidates, affiliated with France Unbowed, a party that supports Palestine, were allegedly targeted just before the March municipal elections.

Allegations

• Targeted Party: France Unbowed
• Suspected Interferer: Small Israeli firm BlackCore
• Operated fake websites and social media profiles claiming the candidates committed crimes.
• Ran negative digital advertisements to sow doubt about their integrity.

Investigation Details

• Initiated by: Paris prosecutors, independent of external influence.
• Objective: Provide clear answers on the safety and integrity of French elections, especially after similar incidents in other cities.
• Scope: Will review evidence from prior investigations in Marseille and Toulouse, leveraging expertise from a national cyber police unit.
• Legal Framework: French law defines foreign interference as actions carried out by a foreign government. If only private companies or individuals from abroad are involved, it will not constitute interference under current statutes.
• Prosecutorial Division: The case is handled by the unit dealing with military and national security threats.

Parties Involved

• Candidates: The mayoral hopefuls from Marseille, Toulouse, and Roubaix.
• Party Controversy: France Unbowed has faced antisemitism accusations from some Jewish leaders and critics, which it denies. Business circles also criticize its high tax and spending policies.

Response from BlackCore

When questioned, BlackCore described itself as a leading influence‑marketing and cyber firm that supports governments and campaigns. It claims to provide advanced tools and security for shaping public opinion, though it has yet to respond to further inquiries.