Paris Attacks Coordinator May Be Released Early Under Belgian Law

Mohamed Bakkali, convicted for his role in the 2015 Paris attacks, may be released early under Belgian law, causing tension between France and Belgium.

Background

Mohamed Bakkali, identified as the logistics coordinator for the 2015 Paris and Thalys train terrorist attacks, was sentenced in France to 30 years in prison for his involvement in the attacks that resulted in 132 deaths. In 2023, Bakkali was transferred to Belgium, where he is now eligible for early release under Belgian sentencing laws.

Belgian Legal Framework

Under Belgian law, prisoners can be considered for early release after serving one-third of their sentence. Bakkali has already been granted short furloughs, a step toward possible parole under electronic monitoring. The Brussels Sentence Enforcement Court approved six 36-hour leaves despite opposition from prosecutors.

French Response

French officials have expressed outrage, arguing that this undermines their judicial decisions and the justice owed to victims. A French magistrate described the potential release as a "slap in the face" to French justice and the victims, emphasizing concerns over the sovereignty of French judicial decisions being rendered meaningless.

Belgian Authorities' Position

Belgian authorities stress that they must apply domestic law without external influence. They highlight that Bakkali has shown signs of remorse and participated in rehabilitation programs. However, concerns remain, especially since Bakkali has not disclosed critical information that could have prevented the 2016 Brussels attacks.

Implications

This situation has stirred political and public backlash in both countries. Belgian lawmakers are now pushing for stricter laws regarding early release in terrorism cases to prevent similar controversies in the future.