French far-right leader Marine Le Pen reacts to Normandy siege

French far-right Front National leader Marine Le Pen
Hatty Collier26 July 2016

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen today said the murder of a priest by two knifemen during a siege at a church has led her to fear "a new attack by Islamist terrorists".

A second of five hostages is fighting for life in hospital.

After the bloodbath unfolded, the far-right politician tweeted: “More horror at Saint Etienne du Rouvray. The modus operandi obviously leads one to fear a new attack by Islamist terrorists."

The two assailants were shot dead by police after entering the place of worship during a morning service, soon after 9am.

Those held hostage included the priest, two sisters from a local order, and two parishioners.

Police and rescue workers stand at the scene in Normany
REUTERS

A third nun had managed to escape and raised the alarm.

A security official said the identities of the attackers and motive for the attack are unclear.

France's anti-terrorist prosecution unit is leading the investigation into the hostage attack.

Islamic State extremists have urged followers to attack French churches and the group is believed to have planned at least one church attack earlier.

Today's attack is the latest incident to shock France following the Bastille Day lorry massacre in Nice on July 14 when 84 people were killed and hundreds more were seriously injured.

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