Shortly after arrest

Imam deported after radical sermons

An imam has been deported from France for allegedly preaching radical sermons. Less than twelve hours after his arrest, he was deported to Tunisia, announced Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin on Thursday evening.

"This is proof that the immigration law, without which such a rapid deportation would not have been possible, is making France stronger," said Darmanin. The Muslim preacher from a community near Avignon in the south of France is accused of calling the French flag a "satanic object" on February 9. There was a video recording of the sermon in question.

Tensions with Jews
Other statements made by the Muslim were said to have contradicted the values of the republic, as well as promoting discrimination against women and tensions with the Jewish community. Although the preacher was born in Tunis, he has lived in France since childhood. According to him, he was misunderstood and he also knew the basic French values.

The man's lawyer announced that he would take legal action against the deportation before the administrative court. The case has now caused a stir in France. The country has become sensitized after attacks and incidents with an Islamist background. At the same time, the authorities' haste has caused some incomprehension.