Omar, born in Saudi Arabia, had lived in various countries, including Sudan and Afghanistan, before distancing himself from his father at the age of 19. He eventually settled in Normandy, France, in 2016 with his British wife, Jane Felix-Browne, after taking up painting. The couple’s marriage attracted media attention due to their age difference and Jane’s conversion to Islam, adopting the name Zaina Mohammed.
Retailleau stated on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that Omar bin Laden’s posts from 2023 supported terrorism, prompting authorities to issue an order for him to leave French territory. He added that the decision was confirmed by the courts, citing national security concerns. Additionally, Retailleau signed a ban prohibiting Omar from returning to France “for any reason whatsoever.”
Omar bin Laden’s previous attempt to live in the UK was denied by British authorities. His father, Osama bin Laden, was the founder of Al-Qaeda and is believed to have fathered around two dozen children before being killed by U.S. special forces in Pakistan in 2011.
Retailleau’s announcement comes amid efforts by France’s government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Michel Barnier, to tighten immigration and security measures following the country’s recent legislative elections.
