PARIS — A French soldier was hospitalized on Monday after being stabbed while on patrol outside the Gare de l’Est train station in eastern Paris. The incident, which occurred as the city prepares to host the 2024 Summer Olympics, led to the swift arrest of at least one suspect, according to officials in Paris.

The soldier, whose identity has not been disclosed, suffered a shoulder blade injury but is reported to be in stable condition, stated the Paris prosecutor's office, as reported by The Associated Press.

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed that the soldier was part of Operation Sentinel, a French military initiative launched after the 2015 Paris attacks to enhance security measures.

According to a police source familiar with the investigation, the suspect, identified as a man born in the Republic of Congo, shouted "God is great" during the attack. He was swiftly apprehended by other military personnel patrolling the area. The suspect, known to authorities for a psychiatric disorder and involvement in a previous murder case, remains unidentified publicly.

Authorities have indicated that terrorism is not suspected in the incident, as confirmed by the national counterterrorism prosecutor’s office overseeing the investigation.

Preparations for the upcoming Olympics have intensified security measures in Paris. The city plans to deploy 30,000 police officers daily during the Games, scheduled from July 26 to August 11. Additionally, 45,000 officers will be present for the opening ceremony along the Seine river, with an additional 18,000 military personnel aiding in security efforts throughout the event.

France remains on high alert following recent security alerts, including the country's elevated national security status following a deadly attack at a concert hall in Moscow earlier this year, claimed by the Islamic State terrorist group.

The attack on the French soldier underscores ongoing security challenges in France, particularly in urban centers like Paris, despite extensive counterterrorism measures implemented since the 2015 attacks. Operation Sentinel, launched in the aftermath of those attacks, involves deploying military personnel to key locations across France to protect against terrorist threats and enhance public safety.

The swift response to Monday's stabbing highlights the effectiveness of France's security protocols, where quick apprehension of suspects is critical in preventing further violence. The suspect's cry of "God is great," commonly associated with terrorist attacks, initially raised concerns of terrorism. However, authorities quickly determined that the incident was not linked to terrorism but rather stemmed from the suspect's personal circumstances and mental health issues.

Gérald Darmanin emphasized that the soldier was performing routine patrol duties as part of Operation Sentinel, underscoring the ongoing nature of security measures in France. The soldier's injury, while not life-threatening, serves as a reminder of the risks faced by security forces tasked with safeguarding public spaces, especially during high-profile events like the upcoming Olympics.

As Paris gears up to host the 2024 Summer Olympics, security preparations have been heightened to ensure the safety of athletes, officials, and spectators. The deployment of 30,000 police officers daily underscores the scale of security operations planned to mitigate potential threats during the Games. Additionally, the presence of 18,000 military personnel alongside police forces during the opening ceremony signifies a comprehensive approach to maintaining security throughout the event.

France's proactive stance against terrorism and its robust security measures reflect a broader commitment to protecting public safety and maintaining stability in the face of evolving security challenges. The country's experience with terrorism, including recent incidents in Europe, underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding public spaces and large-scale events against potential threats.

The incident at Gare de l’Est serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining public security, balancing between effective counterterrorism measures and safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. France's response to such incidents continues to evolve, integrating lessons learned from past attacks to enhance resilience and ensure swift responses to security threats.

In conclusion, while Monday's stabbing does not appear to be terrorism-related, it underscores the ongoing need for robust security measures and vigilance in France, particularly in major urban centers hosting international events like the upcoming Olympics. The incident highlights the dedication and professionalism of security forces tasked with protecting public safety amidst complex and challenging circumstances.