France has summoned the US ambassador after Charles Kushner, a prominent American businessman and father of Jared Kushner, wrote an open letter accusing French President Emmanuel Macron of failing to adequately address rising anti-Semitism in the country. In the letter, published in the Wall Street Journal, Kushner expressed deep concern over the surge in anti-Semitic incidents in France, which he believes has “exploded” since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Kushner argued 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 has dismissed these allegations as “unacceptable,” stating that authorities have been “fully mobilized” to counter the increase in anti-Semitic attacks. The ministry also emphasized that Kushner’s remarks do not reflect the quality of the transatlantic partnership between France and the United States.
The controversy surrounding France’s decision to recognize Palestine has also drawn criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Macron, however, has defended his decision, describing the criticism as “erroneous” and announcing that Paris would formalize recognition at the UN General Assembly in September as a “historic commitment to a just and lasting peace.”
The French government’s response to the rise in anti-Semitism has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that more needs to be done to protect the Jewish community. The incident has highlighted the complexities of addressing anti-Semitism and the delicate balance of international relations, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The diplomatic row between France and the US comes at a time when both countries are navigating complex geopolitical relationships. The French government’s decision to recognize Palestine has significant implications for the region and beyond, and the international community is watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. As the UN General Assembly approaches, it remains to be seen how France’s decision will be received and what impact it will have on the ongoing efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the region.
