Paris' Louvre Museum abruptly closes its doors for 'security reasons'

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) – Citing security concerns, Paris’ iconic Louvre Museum on Saturday abruptly closed its doors to the public.

"For security reasons, the Musee du Louvre is closing its doors today, Saturday, October 14," the museum said on X, without giving further details.

"Those who have booked a visit during the day will be reimbursed. Thank you for your understanding," it added.

Videos on social media showed visitors being hurriedly evacuated from the museum

Last week security was reinforced around places of worship, Jewish schools, and monuments in several cities in France, especially Paris and its suburbs, amid intense clashes between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israeli forces.

With an Israeli ground operation widely expected and Palestinians in northern Gaza facing orders to evacuate their homes and go south, tension is seen as reaching a new peak.

France has a large Jewish population as well as many immigrants from majority-Muslim countries.

The Louvre boasts some of the world’s most famous artworks, including the Venus de Milo, Raft of the Medusa, and the Mona Lisa.