Hostage takers kill at least 1 at French church, priest's throat reportedly slit

Both attackers were killed by police snipers after running out of the church at one point during the standoff, an interior ministry spokesman said.

Police have also officially confirmed the death of one victim, who was "killed with a blade."

In an official statement, France's President Hollande called the attack a "terrorist act," and said the attackers claimed a connection to IS. He added that France needs to battle against IS "by all means," Reuters reported.

J'adresse aux familles des victimes ainsi qu’à l’ensemble des catholiques de France, la solidarité et la compassion de la Nation.

— François Hollande (@fhollande) July 26, 2016