Kushner’s Open Letter Criticizes France’s Response to Antisemitism
Jared Kushner’s open letter, published in the Wall Street Journal on Sunday, expressed significant concern regarding the alarming rise of antisemitism in France and the inadequate actions taken by the French government to address it, reports 24brussels.
Kushner wrote, “President Trump and I have Jewish children and share Jewish grandchildren. I know how he feels about antisemitism.” His comments come in the wake of a surge in antisemitic incidents in France, particularly following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.
The U.S. State Department was asked if it agrees with Kushner’s assessment of France’s efforts to combat antisemitism. In an emailed statement, the department affirmed, “Yes, we stand by 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.” However, the State Department did not address France’s accusation that Kushner’s letter constitutes a violation of international law.
In response, French authorities firmly rejected Kushner’s assertions, emphasizing that they are demonstrating total mobilization against antisemitic acts, which they consider intolerable. This controversy follows France’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state, a move spearheaded by President Macron ahead of the upcoming U.N. General Assembly. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned this decision, claiming it is “fueling the antisemitic fire in France.”
The ongoing discourse highlights the tensions between France’s foreign policy actions and the domestic challenges associated with rising antisemitism, as the country navigates complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
