Tensions between France and Israel Escalate over Middle East Conflicts
French President Emmanuel Macron has taken a more uncompromising stance on the conflicts in the Middle East, further straining tense relations with Israel. A recent comment by Macron, referring to the creation of the Israeli state, was quickly denounced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as distorting history.
Macron’s Comments on Israel’s Creation
In a closed-door cabinet meeting, Macron said, "Netanyahu must not forget that his country was created by a decision of the UN" – a reference to the 1947 UN resolution to partition Palestine into a Jewish state and an Arab state. Macron added, "Therefore, this is not the time to disregard the decisions of the UN." This statement has been met with strong criticism from the Israeli government and the Jewish community in France.
Netanyahu’s Response
Netanyahu hit back at Macron’s comments, stating that Israel’s founding was achieved by the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, not a UN ruling. He also mentioned that among those who fought for Israel in 1948 were French Jews who had been sent to death camps after being rounded up by the collaborationist Vichy regime, which governed France during World War II.
Reaction from the Jewish Community in France
Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions, called Macron’s remarks a "historical and political error" and a "dangerous strengthening of the camp of those who contest the legitimacy of Israel’s right to exist." Another critic, Caroline Yadan, an MP for Macron’s party, described the comments as "unworthy" and "a threat to the legitimacy of Israel’s existence."
French Government’s Decision on Euronaval Show
In another sign of the tensions between the countries, organizers of the major Euronaval defence show outside Paris next month have announced that, following a decision by the French government, no Israeli stands or exhibits will be allowed at the salon.
Conclusion
The tensions between France and Israel over the conflicts in the Middle East have escalated, with both sides exchanging sharp rhetoric. Macron’s comments on Israel’s creation have been met with strong criticism from the Israeli government and the Jewish community in France. The situation highlights the complex and contentious issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of the international community in addressing it.
FAQs
Q: What was the context for Macron’s comments on Israel’s creation?
A: Macron made the comment during a closed-door cabinet meeting, where he was discussing the current conflicts in the Middle East.
Q: How did Netanyahu respond to Macron’s comments?
A: Netanyahu denied that Israel’s founding was achieved by a UN ruling, instead attributing it to the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Q: What is the reaction of the Jewish community in France to Macron’s remarks?
A: The community has expressed concern and criticism, with some leaders describing the comments as a "historical and political error" that ignores the "century-old history of Zionism."