Ex-French MP Links Riots to Anti-Israel Sentiment, Pledges Aid to Netanyahu

Former French parliament member Meir Habib has sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron's administration, attributing the recent widespread riots and looting to a loss of government control and rising anti-Israel sentiment. In an interview with Arutz 7, Habib stated that protests, initially sparked by social issues and the cost of living, devolved into extensive vandalism and theft, causing hundreds of millions of euros in damages to businesses, including luxury stores.

Habib accused French authorities of failing to adequately prepare for and prevent the unrest, questioning the government's and police's response. He described scenes of rioters entering shops and businesses, and noted severe impacts on civilians, including the elderly being robbed. Habib expressed shame and urged for action before the situation deteriorates further, emphasizing that the crisis affects all of France, not just the Jewish community.

He directly linked the internal crisis to France's foreign policy, particularly its stance on Israel. Habib argued that French policies, including recognition of a Palestinian state, have not curbed hostility towards Israel, citing the presence of Palestinian flags in Paris during the riots. He also criticized Macron for focusing on international travel and conferences while France faces a severe domestic crisis, noting Macron's reported low public approval rating of around 18%.

Habib also recalled French decisions that restricted Israeli defense companies' participation in Paris exhibitions, viewing them as part of a hostile policy toward Israel that contributes to negative public sentiment. He drew parallels between the current situation in France and broader threats to democratic values, referencing past terror attacks in France like the Charlie Hebdo shooting and suggesting that France and Israel face similar challenges.

Furthermore, Habib voiced concern over the rise of extremist political factions in France, specifically mentioning Jean-Luc Mélenchon and his supporters, whom he accused of antisemitism and exacerbating societal tensions. He also alluded to his own recent electoral defeat, suggesting his pro-Israel stance and closeness to Netanyahu played a role.

In the latter part of the interview, Habib announced his arrival in Israel to assist Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his reelection campaign. Citing a 35-year acquaintance with Netanyahu and his experience in meetings with past French presidents and Macron, Habib expressed strong support for Netanyahu's continued leadership. He also briefly mentioned Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich as a close friend and expressed hope for national bloc parties to unite to overcome the electoral threshold.