France has summoned the US ambassador following accusations that Paris has failed to address rising anti-Semitism, particularly amid increased tensions related to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Charles Kushner, a prominent figure linked to the Trump administration, criticized President Emmanuel Macron for not taking sufficient action against anti-Semitic violence. The French government dismissed the claims as unacceptable, stating it has been fully mobilized to combat the rise in attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also criticized France’s decision to recognize Palestine, while Macron defended his stance as a historic commitment to peace.
Kushner’s open letter in the Wall Street Journal argued that anti-Semitism in France has ‘exploded’ since the Hamas attack, claiming that Macron’s plan to formally recognize the State of Palestine would ’embolden extremists, fuel violence, and endanger Jewish life in France.’ The French Foreign Ministry responded by calling Kushner’s remarks ‘unacceptable,’ stating that authorities have been ‘fully mobilized’ to counter the surge in anti-Semitic attacks. They emphasized that the transatlantic partnership between France and the United States must be based on trust and high-quality cooperation.
Netanyahu’s criticism of France’s recognition of Palestine aligns with broader tensions between Israel and European nations over the political implications of such decisions. Macron has consistently defended his stance, describing the recognition as a ‘historic commitment to a just and lasting peace.’ The announcement of this formal recognition at the UN General Assembly in September highlights the significance of the decision and underscores the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Israel-Palestine relations.
The situation reflects broader concerns about rising anti-Semitism in Europe, particularly in the wake of the October 7 attack. While France has taken measures to address the issue, the criticism from figures like Kushner indicates ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of current efforts. The French government’s response highlights its commitment to maintaining strong ties with the United States while addressing the domestic challenges related to the safety of Jewish communities.
The incident has also raised questions about the impact of political decisions on public safety and the role of international alliances in addressing such issues. As tensions continue to evolve, the situation underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic relations and the protection of minority communities in Europe.