Shahd Alhamdan
Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — Many Saudi and Arab residents in France feared a backlash from the extreme right-wingers following the Friday night Paris attacks.
The Saudi Embassy in France issued an advisory warning all students in France to stay indoors until the curfew is lifted.
Despite the Paris attacks that claimed the lives of 129 innocent people, many foreigners believe that France is a tolerant country. French people are aware that not all foreigners are terrorists.
“There is no reason to fear or worry. France is a civilized country,” said Naif Al-Bader, a Saudi academic and a member of the International Institute for Strategic Studies and Research, who is working in Paris.
“Arabs like any other foreign national are treated equally,” said Naif, who was at the Champs Elysees when the attacks took place.
Nicolas Shehada, a French Lebanese citizens, echoed what Naif said.
“The treatment for Arab residents in France is the same, especially when the media is helping them by creating awareness about the origin of the Daesh (the so-called IS) terrorist group,” noted Shehada, who said that his sister was near Stade de France with her husband and children during the attack, but they were safe.
“It is a worrying situation. French police are everywhere to ensure security,” he added.Abdulrahman Aloshaiwi, a Saudi student pursuing his higher studies in France, told Al-Riyadh Arabic daily that he was in the stadium during the attack.
First, he heard two explosions in the first half of the match. He thought these were powerful fireworks. But he received a call during the match break informing him that there were series of explosions outside the stadium. No one announced anything until the end of the match.
The news of the attacks was displayed on the main screen of the stadium and several gates were closed.
“I saw gunmen carrying light weapons, but did not hear any shooting. French policemen guided us to the area of the metro ensuring our safety. After that we took the metro and arrived in (north of Paris). We heard policemen shouting and telling us to rush out immediately. Everyone ran for their lives,” said Aloshaiwi, who found all shops and cafes closed.
He kept walking until he got a taxi.
Some Saudis vacationing in Paris expressed shock and grief at the heinous crime. They want to get back home as soon as possible.
