Protests in Paris Against Controversial Gala Supporting Israel
Protests erupted in Paris on Wednesday against a controversial gala organized by far-right figures in support of Israel. The event, intended to raise funds for the Israeli military, included Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich among its invited guests.
Tensions Mounting in Paris
The demonstrations came on the eve of a high-stakes soccer match at France’s national stadium against the Israeli national team, overshadowed by tensions around the wars in the Middle East. Authorities in Paris announced that more than 4000 police officers and 1600 stadium staff will be deployed for the game.
Backlash Against Smotrich’s Attendance
Smotrich, a vocal advocate of Israeli settlements, had been expected to attend Wednesday’s gala, dubbed “Israel is Forever,” which was planned by an association of the same name. The group’s stated goal is to “mobilize French-speaking Zionist forces.”
After facing growing criticism of the event, Smotrich’s office confirmed that the minister would not travel to Paris to participate. However, the invitation to Smotrich drew sharp criticism from local associations, unions, and left-wing political parties, prompting two protests in the French capital.
International Criticism and Response
The minister’s hard-line stance on Israeli settlements and comments regarding the West Bank have sparked international condemnation. The French Foreign Ministry called Smotrich’s remarks “contrary to international law” and counterproductive to efforts to reduce regional tensions. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.
Protesters Speak Out
On Wednesday night, several hundred protesters marched through central Paris, denouncing the event as a “gala of hatred and shame.” Some demonstrators broke windows at a McDonald’s along the route, while a separate group gathered near the Arc de Triomphe to protest against the gala and Smotrich.
One protester, Melkir Saib, expressed his frustration, stating, “Imagine if an association were hosting a gala for Hezbollah or Hamas – there’s no way the police would allow that. The situation is just unfair.”
Violence and Controversy
Critics have also pointed out Nili Kupfer-Naouri, president of the “Israel is Forever” association, for past controversial statements. In 2023, she sparked outrage by tweeting that “no civilian in Gaza was innocent.” The protests in Paris come in the wake of escalating tensions in the region, with incidents in Amsterdam and Paris related to conflicts in the Middle East.
Conclusion
The protests in Paris against the “Israel is Forever” gala highlight the deep divisions and controversies surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The event has sparked international criticism and reignited debates about the path to peace in the region.
FAQs
What was the purpose of the gala in Paris?
The gala was organized to raise funds for the Israeli military and to mobilize French-speaking Zionist forces.
Why was there backlash against Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich?
Smotrich’s attendance at the gala and his hard-line stance on Israeli settlements have drawn criticism from local associations, unions, and political parties.
How did the French Foreign Ministry respond to Smotrich’s comments?
The French Foreign Ministry condemned Smotrich’s remarks as contrary to international law and reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.