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In a powerful message to the nation, French President Emmanuel Macron has emphatically called on the French people to confront what he describes as "the unbearable resurgence of unbridled antisemitism." This urgent plea was articulated in a letter published by the French newspaper Le Parisien.
Macron's words come at a critical time when France is witnessing a startling increase in antisemitic acts. The President's letter reveals a disturbing statistic: over a thousand antisemitic incidents were reported in France in just a single month.
This number, alarmingly, triples the total incidents recorded against the Jewish community in the entire previous year. The surge in hate crimes has instilled a "legitimate anguish" within the Jewish community, leading many to the extent of concealing their identities for protection.
Macron's reflection on this situation is poignant: "A France where our Jewish citizens are afraid is not France. A France where French people are afraid because of their religion or their origin is not France."
Balancing Defense and Dialogue
Macron's letter also touches on the broader geopolitical landscape, specifically addressing the conflict involving Israel and Hamas.
He reaffirms France's support for Israel's right to self-defense, highlighting the necessity of neutralizing Hamas's threat. However, he balances this stance with a call for renewed political dialogue and the protection of civilians and hostages in Gaza.
His vision extends to the larger region as well: "We want justice, peace, and security for the people of Israel, for the Palestinian people, and for the states of the region," Macron states. This comprehensive approach underlines France's commitment to peace and stability, not just within its borders but also in the global arena.
A Historic March and a Call for Peace
The timing of Macron's letter is significant. It was released on the eve of a historic march against antisemitism in Paris, which the President perceives as a beacon of hope. His message resonates with a broader call for unity and solidarity, transcending beyond the immediate Jewish community to encompass all French citizens.
This announcement follows Macron's recent call for a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing it as the sole solution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. His advocacy for a ceasefire underlines his commitment to peace and the urgent need to address the root causes of conflict.