France has announced plans to summon US Ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, regarding his recent comments about antisemitism in the country. Kushner, who is Jewish and the father-in-law of former President Donald Trump’s daughter, Ivanka, shared his views in an open letter to French President Emmanuel Macron published in the Wall Street Journal. In the letter, he echoed statements made by Israeli officials, asserting that there has been a marked increase in antisemitism in France since the outbreak of the recent Gaza conflict.
The French Foreign Ministry issued a statement firmly rejecting Kushner’s claims, labeling them as “unacceptable,” and indicated that he would be required to meet with officials to discuss the matter on Monday. In his letter, Kushner detailed instances of antisemitic attacks and vandalism, stating that Jewish individuals are assaulted daily, and referenced reports of antisemitic incidents even occurring at preschool facilities.
Kushner also expressed his readiness to collaborate with Macron and French leaders in developing a comprehensive plan to address antisemitism. The French government highlighted that since the Vienna Convention of 1961, it is inappropriate for foreign ambassadors to interfere in a country’s internal matters.
The tensions have been heightened by Macron’s plans to formally recognize Palestine in September, with the French leader previously emphasizing the need for building a viable Palestinian state that recognizes Israel in order to enhance regional security. This announcement followed a deadly attack by Hamas in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
Reports from Gaza indicate a catastrophic humanitarian situation, with allegations of a famine affecting over half a million people, although Israel has contested these claims.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq58102wz47o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss