France’s Jewish community can breathe a sigh of relief after terrorism charges were filed Wednesday against a 33-year-old Algerian man accused of setting fire to a synagogue.

According to AFP, the suspect, identified only as EHK, set two cars on fire in a car park underneath the Beth Yaacov synagogue in La Grande Motte on Saturday. At the time, the synagogue was largely vacant, as Jewish worshipers had not yet arrived for Shabbat services. Those who were present inside, including the rabbi, thankfully managed to escape after the cars exploded. However, a police officer was injured after being called to the scene.

In a shootout with police, EHK sustained injuries to his torso, arm, and face. Under questioning, EHK admitted to staging the attack, claiming he acted in support of “Palestine” and to provoke a reaction from Israeli authorities. He also insisted he had no intention to kill but rather to frighten people.

“He had admitted to the facts in the first hearing and explained that he acted in support of the Palestinian cause, denying any homicidal intent but conceding to have intended to cause fear,” a statement by France’s National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office reads.

However, prosecutors believe that EHK’s recent behavior suggests a growing radicalization in his extremist beliefs. Prior to the attack, the assailant had acquired a weapon and researched local synagogues, Jewish festivals, and Shabbat customs online. Besides the pistol, he had multiple containers of flammable liquid in his possession as well as a hatchet inscribed with messages referencing Palestine, Gaza, and the blood of Muslims.