France Responds to Netanyahu’s Accusations of Fueling Antisemitism
In a fiery exchange, France has fired back at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claims that President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state has fueled antisemitism.
Tensions Escalate Over Palestinian Statehood Recognition
Tensions between the two nations have reached new heights since Macron announced France’s intention to formally recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September.
Netanyahu’s Accusations and Macron’s Response
Netanyahu penned a letter to Macron, accusing him of worsening antisemitism in France with his support for a Palestinian state.
In response, Macron’s office released a statement calling Netanyahu’s accusations “erroneous, abject, and will not go unanswered.” The statement emphasized France’s commitment to protecting its Jewish population.
Rising Antisemitism in France
France is home to Western Europe’s largest Jewish community, but in recent years, antisemitic incidents have been on the rise. The country has seen a surge in physical assaults, threats, vandalism, and harassment targeting Jewish individuals and institutions.
Defending France’s Record on Antisemitism
France’s Minister for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, denounced Netanyahu’s letter and defended France’s efforts in combating antisemitism. He emphasized that France has no lessons to learn in this regard.
Global Support for Palestinian Statehood
Macron’s pledge to recognize Palestinian statehood was echoed by other countries like Britain, Canada, and Australia, although with some conditions attached to their promises.
As tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely to see how the situation between France and Israel unfolds. – Euronews
