In a significant diplomatic move, France is set to summon U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner to the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on Monday. This follows a series of sharp allegations made by Kushner regarding the French government's lack of sufficient action in addressing the alarming rise of antisemitism within the country. The French Ministry issued a statement on Sunday, indicating that it has "taken note of the allegations" detailed in Kushner's letter, which was published in the Wall Street Journal.
The French Ministry firmly rejected Kushner's claims, emphasizing that while there has indeed been a notable rise in antisemitic acts since October 7, 2023, this is a reality that the French authorities are actively working to combat. "These acts are intolerable," the ministry stated, expressing regret over the increase in antisemitism. However, the ministry highlighted that Kushner's allegations are "unacceptable" and noted that his open letter infringes upon diplomatic norms, specifically the principles outlined in the 1961 Vienna Convention governing diplomatic relations.
The statement further asserted that Kushner's remarks undermine the quality of the transatlantic partnership between France and the United States and the trust that should exist among allies. The scheduled summon of Ambassador Kushner to the Quai d’Orsay on Monday, August 25, underscores the seriousness with which France is treating this diplomatic incident.
In his open letter addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron, published in the Wall Street Journal, Kushner expressed deep concern over the escalating antisemitism in France. He criticized the French government's inadequate response, stating, "Public statements haranguing Israel and gestures toward recognition of a Palestinian state embolden extremists, fuel violence, and endanger Jewish life in France." Kushner firmly stated that "anti-Zionism is antisemitism—plain and simple."
Kushner also highlighted his personal connection to the issue, noting that he and former President Donald Trump share Jewish grandchildren, which amplifies their commitment to fighting antisemitism. He pointed to the measures taken by Trump to combat antisemitism, asserting, "These measures prove that antisemitism can be fought effectively when leaders have the will to act."
In his letter, Kushner urged President Macron to take decisive actions, including enforcing hate-crime laws rigorously, ensuring the safety of Jewish schools, synagogues, and businesses, and prosecuting offenders to the fullest extent. He called for the abandonment of any actions that might legitimize groups like Hamas and its allies. Additionally, Kushner expressed his willingness to collaborate with Macron and other French leaders to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing the root causes of antisemitism.
In light of the French ministry's decision to summon Kushner, the U.S. State Department publicly backed the ambassador's remarks. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated, "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." This support from the State Department highlights the ongoing commitment of the U.S. to address the issue of antisemitism both domestically and abroad.
