This morning, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the Paris attacks – the first time it has laid claim to any attacks in Europe. It released a rambling statement in French, referring to a music concert as a “profligate prostitution party”. It also seemed to reference Charlie Hebdo. Here is an English translation:-
In the name of Allah, the All Merciful, the Very Merciful.
The Very High All Said: “It is He who expelled the ones who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture from their homes at the first gathering. You did not think they would leave, and they thought that their fortresses would protect them from Allah ; but [the decree of] Allah came upon them from where they had not expected, and He cast terror into their hearts [so] they destroyed their houses by their [own] hands and the hands of the believers.

Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in