France is mourning following the killings at the Charlie Hebdo satirical newspaper that resulted in 12 dead, including 8 journalists, as well as another 11 injured. French President Francois Hollande declared Thursday a day of national mourning and called for unity throughout the country. French flags will fly at half mast for three days and a minute of silence in memory of the victims of the terrorist strike will take place at noon on Thursday.  At this time, the Cathedral of Notre Dame will ring its bells as a sign of sorrow.

France is on alert following the wake of the tragedy with increased security at the offices of the media, places of worship and other potential targets.