A US France antisemitism row escalated after Paris summoned Ambassador Charles Kushner over his letter to President Macron. Kushner accused France of not doing enough to stop antisemitic acts following its Mideast policy statements.
France Summons US Ambassador
France summoned American ambassador Charles Kushner to appear at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on Monday. The summons followed Kushner’s letter accusing the French government of failing to adequately combat antisemitism.
The French foreign ministry called Kushner’s allegations “unacceptable” in a statement issued Sunday. France’s ministry said it “firmly rejects” the claims, which it said violate the obligation not to interfere with the internal affairs of another country.
Kushner Links French Policy to Antisemitism
In his letter, Kushner asserted that French government statements regarding recognizing a Palestinian state fueled antisemitic incidents. He wrote, “Public statements haranguing Israel and gestures toward recognition of a Palestinian state embolden extremists, fuel violence, and endanger Jewish life in France.“
The ambassador, a real estate developer pardoned by former President Donald Trump, also stated his view that “anti-Zionism is antisemitism – plain and simple.” Kushner is the father of Jared Kushner, son-in-law and former senior advisor to Trump.
Combating Antisemitism in France
The French ministry stated its authorities are “fully mobilized” to combat a rise in antisemitic acts since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. It described these acts, which have increased significantly, as “intolerable.“
The ministry’s statement noted the allegations “also fall short of the quality of the transatlantic partnership between France and the United States.” It emphasized the trust that must prevail between allies.
US State Department Responds to US France Antisemitism Row
In response to the diplomatic friction, the US State Department backs Kushner and his comments. “Ambassador Kushner is our U.S. government representative in France and is doing a great job advancing our national interests in that role,” said spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
Call for Decisive Action
Kushner urged Macron “to act decisively” in his letter to the French president. He called on France to “enforce hate-crime laws without exception, ensure the safety of Jewish schools, synagogues and businesses.“
The ambassador also asked the French government to “abandon steps that give legitimacy to Hamas and its allies.” This reflects ongoing tensions over how Western nations engage with Palestinian groups.
