French-American diplomatic clash over anti-Semitism: France’s MFA summons U.S. ambassador in response to Kushner’s criticism
Recent days have seen a sharp diplomatic confrontation between France and the United States amid rising anti-Semitism across Europe.
The U.S.
ambassador to France, Charles Kushner, published an open letter addressed to the French leadership and a prominent article in the Wall Street Journal voicing serious concern over Paris’s insufficient efforts to combat mounting anti-Semitic incidents.
Kushner emphasized that anti-Semitism is spreading rapidly in France, endangering Jewish communities, and criticized the French government’s lack of effective action to counteract these phenomena.
Drawing from personal and political experience, he highlighted America’s deep-rooted connections with Jewish culture and its zero-tolerance stance towards anti-Semitism.
Kushner pointed out that recent French intentions to recognize Palestine as a state, along with public criticism of Israel, have contributed to the increase in anti-Semitic acts and tensions within French society.
According to the diplomat, such political moves not only escalate violence but also serve to incite extremist elements.
His statement warned that condemning Israel and supporting Palestinian recognition could further jeopardize Jewish communities in France and fuel violence.
In response, the French Foreign Ministry summoned Kushner for clarification and diplomatic discussion, asserting that France fully rejects the accusations.
The ministry stressed that diplomatic relations require mutual respect and adherence to international laws, particularly the Vienna Convention of 1961, which prohibits interference in internal affairs.
French officials condemned Kushner’s remarks, emphasizing that fighting anti-Semitism remains a top priority and that France is capable of handling the problem effectively.
Nevertheless, this incident highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations, reflecting the complexity of diplomatic interactions amid ongoing social and political challenges.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump’s administration continues to support Israeli interests while criticizing European allies for their stance on Palestinian state recognition amidst regional humanitarian crises, further adding strain to international relations.