France Summons US Ambassador Over Antisemitism Allegations
France has summoned the US ambassador, Charles Kushner, following his open letter accusing French President Emmanuel Macron of failing to adequately address the rising antisemitism in the country. Kushner, the father of US President Donald Trump's son-in-law, stated in his letter that antisemitism in France had exploded
since Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023.
Background and Context
Published in the Wall Street Journal, Kushner's letter expressed his deep concern over a dramatic rise of antisemitism in France and the lack of sufficient action by your government to confront it.
Kushner also criticized Macron's plan to formally recognize the State of Palestine, arguing that it would embolden extremists, fuel violence, and endanger Jewish life in France.
The French government has expressed its disapproval of Kushner's claims, citing them as unacceptable.
The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs summoned the U.S. ambassador to appear on Monday at the ministry. However, according to Folha de S.Paulo, Kushner evaded the summons, and the U.S. embassy's charge d'affaires attended in his place.
Diverging Narratives and Reactions
The allegations have sparked a diplomatic dispute between the two nations, with the United States backing its ambassador's criticism of France's response to rising antisemitism. The Times of Israel reported that the U.S. has reiterated its support for Ambassador Kushner, while Foreign Minister Sa'ar called France's decision to summon the ambassador the height of hypocrisy.
On the other hand, French ministers and Jewish groups have stated that France has no lessons to take
from the U.S. on tackling antisemitism. Aurore Bergé, the minister in charge of combating discrimination, declared that the French government is conducting a unambiguous
fight against antisemitism, considering the issue too serious to be taken up in diplomatic issues.
Ongoing Tensions and Implications
The row has highlighted the deep divides between France, the U.S., and Israel, with Kushner's letter echoing similar criticisms from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Macron's plan to recognize the State of Palestine.
The French government has insisted it is fully mobilized
to fight surging antisemitism since the October 7 attack, accusing Kushner of interfering in French affairs. Meanwhile, the U.S. stands firmly behind its ambassador’s criticism, marking an escalation in the diplomatic row between the two countries.
Current Status
As the dispute continues, Kushner's criticism aligns with the stance of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, intensifying the diplomatic friction between the nations. France maintains its stance that Kushner's allegations are unacceptable, and it continues to defend its efforts in combating antisemitism.