Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli Reaffirms Harsh Criticism of French Policy

Israeli Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli reiterated his strong condemnation of French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Sunday, despite official criticism from Paris. "I stand by every letter, every sign, and every comma," Chikli stated, adding that if Barrot's positions reflect the "lesson" learned from the October 7, 2023 attacks, then "something is completely broken in his human and moral compass." The Israeli minister described the French government's conduct since the Hamas massacre as a "disgrace."

Chikli accused Paris of offering "no support" to the Jewish community in its fight against antisemitism, nor to Israel in its conflicts against Hamas and Hezbollah. He also denounced France's recognition of a Palestinian state, calling it a "reward" for Hamas while Israeli hostages remain captive. Furthermore, Chikli alleged that French authorities have exhibited "truly antisemitic" behavior towards Israeli defense companies.

These latest remarks follow a statement from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, which had previously condemned Chikli's comments as "insulting," "unacceptable," and incompatible with diplomatic dialogue. French diplomacy rejected any misrepresentation of its stance, recalling its condemnation of the October 7 attacks and the deaths of over 50 French nationals. Paris also emphasized its support for Hamas's disarmament and exclusion from governing Gaza, reaffirming its commitment to a two-state solution as the sole path to ensuring Israel's security and fulfilling Palestinian aspirations.