Macron Rejects Netanyahu’s Criticism, Warns Against Weaponising Antisemitism

Paris, The Gulf Observer: French President Emmanuel Macron has firmly rejected recent criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over rising antisemitism in France, stressing that the issue must not be politicised or used as a tool of discord.

In a strongly worded letter to Netanyahu, published Tuesday in several newspapers, Macron dismissed the Israeli leader’s accusations of French “inaction” as both “unacceptable” and “an offence to France as a whole.” He emphasized that Paris is fully committed to combating antisemitism with all available means.

“The fight against antisemitism must not be weaponised and will not fuel any discord between Israel and France,” Macron wrote.

The exchange comes amid growing international pressure on Israel to end its military campaign in Gaza, which has created a deep humanitarian crisis and widespread destruction, while also leaving Israeli hostages still in captivity.

“I solemnly appeal to you to end the desperate race of a murderous and illegal permanent war in Gaza, causing indignity for your country and placing your people in a deadlock,” Macron added in his message.

The row follows an earlier letter from Netanyahu in mid-August, in which he accused Macron of fuelling antisemitism in France by pledging to formally recognise a Palestinian state during a UN meeting in September. Netanyahu alleged that antisemitic incidents had “surged” in France since the announcement, claiming Macron’s stance amounted to appeasement of Hamas militants.

“Your call for a Palestinian state pours fuel on this antisemitic fire. It is not diplomacy, it is appeasement,” Netanyahu wrote in his earlier letter.

The latest exchange underscores deepening tensions between Paris and Tel Aviv over the Gaza conflict and France’s position on Palestinian statehood.