French officials announced on Monday that they are investigating a potential connection to Iran following the successful prevention of a bomb attack targeting a Bank of America office in Paris. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed that five individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the incident.

Terror Plot Thwarted in Paris

The incident unfolded Saturday morning when Paris police officers observed two suspects carrying a shopping bag near the Bank of America location in the city's 8th arrondissement. The national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office has since initiated an investigation into alleged terrorism-related offenses.

Echoes of Previous European Attacks

Minister Nuñez stated on French radio RTL that the methods used in this foiled plot closely resemble recent attempted attacks carried out in Belgium and the Netherlands. These prior incidents were claimed by a pro-Iranian group, which tied their actions to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

This same group, identified on Telegram as Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right), also claimed responsibility for setting fire to four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity in London last week.

Intelligence Assessment of Tactics

Nuñez suggested that intelligence services often employ proxies or subcontractors, frequently utilizing common criminals, to execute precise actions. These targeted actions, he noted, are often aimed at U.S. interests, members of the Jewish community, or figures within the Iranian opposition.

Since the United States and Israel initiated military action against Iran on February 28, French authorities have heightened security measures. This includes providing personal protection for certain members of the Iranian opposition, according to the Minister.

Bank of America Response

Bank of America spokesperson Bill Halldin confirmed to The Associated Press that the bank is actively communicating with French authorities regarding the ongoing investigation. He offered no further details on the matter.

The targeted office, which employs hundreds of staff in France, is situated approximately 600 meters from the French presidential palace. Employees returned to work at the site on Monday.