France is preparing to summon the United States ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, in response to comments he made that have stirred controversy over the issue of antisemitism in the country. Kushner, who is himself Jewish and has familial ties to former President Donald Trump, expressed his views in an open letter directed to French President Emmanuel Macron published in the Wall Street Journal.
The US ambassador's remarks echo criticisms made by Israeli officials recently, asserting that antisemitism has surged in France as a result of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In his letter, Kushner stated, "There has been an explosion of hatred towards Jews in France since the war began," emphasizing that everyday incidents of antisemitism plague the nation, including assaults on Jews and vandalism of synagogues and businesses.
In a foreign ministry statement, French officials responded strongly, deeming Kushner's claims "unacceptable," and highlighting that the ambassador has requested to meet with Macron this upcoming Monday. The French government asserts that the Vienna Convention prohibits ambassadors from interfering in domestic matters and has reiterated its commitment to combating antisemitism.
Notably, Kushner’s open letter also called for a reduction in Macron's vocal criticisms of Israel, linking them to the growing antisemitism within France. His sentiments parallel a letter from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who criticized Macron for advocating international recognition of a Palestinian state, signaling rising diplomatic tensions.
France's plan for formal recognition of Palestine is set for September, with Macron emphasizing the necessity for a viable Palestinian state that recognizes Israel and contributes to broader Middle Eastern security. He previously condemned antisemitism, perceiving it as fundamentally against French values, and announced increased security measures for Jewish institutions amid rising incidents linked to the Gaza conflict.
The ongoing unrest was ignited by a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to numerous casualties on both sides and subsequently triggering Israel's military response in Gaza, which has reportedly resulted in over 60,000 deaths according to Palestinian health authorities. Amid the conflict, a severe humanitarian crisis has emerged, with reports confirming famine conditions in Gaza City, a claim Israel has vehemently denied, calling it an "outright lie."
