France has increased its domestic security, due to concern about possible threats following the launch of French military action against al-Qaida linked rebels in Mali.

In an interview with the French television network BHM, French Interior Minister Manuel Valls said the threat from terrorists angry over the intervention is not new, but is “serious” and “permanent”.

“We are intensifying checks at airports, train stations, there is vigilance and mobilization. For example, 700 soldiers have been mobilized in the Paris area. So again, (there must be) vigilance, and (we must) never fall into routine or habit.”

Valls says France is also monitoring individuals who want to go Syria, Afghanistan and the Sahel.

France launched a military operation last week to help the Mali government fight Islamist insurgents.