Hollande Blames ISIS for Attacks in Paris as Death Toll Rises

Terrorist attacks on a stadium, restaurants and concert hall in the heart of Paris, killing at least 127 and wounding more than 300, will test European unity. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility. France is under a state of emergency with borders closed. “The attacks, and the possibility that the Islamic State was to blame, promised to further traumatize France and other European countries already fearful of violent jihadists radicalized by the conflicts in Syria and elsewhere,” reports the New York Times. “It could also lend weight to the xenophobic arguments of right-wing populists.” Europe will reassess how to handle waves of refugees, most from Syria, trying to reach Europe each day. France has actively hit hard at ISIS targets in Syria since September; now Europe, the United States and Russia, must reassess how to attack Islamic State targets and a role for the beleaguered Assad regime, supported by Russia and Iran. Upcoming global meetings include the G20 leaders in Turkey and the UN climate change conference in Paris. Global leaders and citizens alike deplore terrorism, yet may struggle on how to unite against extremists who despise the cultures, beliefs and contentment of others. – YaleGlobal