UPDATE: French President Emmanuel Macron has called out U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner for his “unacceptable” criticism regarding France’s actions against antisemitism. This urgent clash highlights escalating tensions as Macron defends his government’s stance on Israel and Palestine.
In a recent interview aired on “Face the Nation,” Macron reacted to Kushner’s public accusations that France is not doing enough to combat rising antisemitism. Kushner’s remarks linked France’s foreign policy decisions to domestic violence against Jews, a connection Macron vehemently disputes. “This is unacceptable,” Macron stated, emphasizing that a diplomat should adhere to diplomatic norms rather than making public statements that could jeopardize international relations.
Kushner’s letter, published in the Wall Street Journal in August, expressed his “deep concern” over the situation in France. He urged Macron to take stronger actions against antisemitism, including enforcing hate-crime laws and ensuring the safety of Jewish institutions. He also controversially stated, “anti-Zionism is antisemitism — plain and simple.”
Macron countered this assertion, arguing that criticism of Israeli policies does not equate to antisemitism. He pointed out that he was the first French president to adopt a definition equating antisemitism with anti-Zionism. “Disagreeing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doesn’t make me antisemitic,” he asserted, reaffirming France’s commitment to support Jewish communities while promoting a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The French foreign ministry has previously summoned Kushner in a formal rebuke, claiming his comments contravene the 1961 Vienna Convention of Diplomatic Relations. Macron reiterated that public diplomacy should not include inflammatory remarks that could lead to diplomatic fallout.
This diplomatic spat unfolds as Macron is set to announce France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly on September 25, 2023. This move, supported by several other nations including the U.K., Australia, and Canada, signifies a notable shift in international relations and an increasing isolation of the current Israeli government amid its ongoing military actions in Gaza.
The backdrop of this conflict includes the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, which resulted in significant casualties and escalated military actions in Gaza. Macron has argued for a multi-phase plan to address the humanitarian crisis, which includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the restoration of humanitarian aid. He has called for a renewed focus on the Palestinian Authority as a credible partner for peace.
As Macron prepares to take a decisive stance on Palestinian statehood, this conflict with Ambassador Kushner underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The implications of this clash resonate beyond France and the U.S., affecting international perceptions and strategies regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As developments continue to unfold, Macron’s challenge to Kushner highlights a critical moment in international diplomacy, raising questions about the future of U.S.-France relations and the broader implications for global stability. Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking story.
