French President Emmanuel Macron's recent call to cease arms deliveries to Israel, aimed at facilitating a political solution in Gaza, has stirred significant controversy.
His statement, made during the commemoration of the October 7 terrorist attacks, was met with approval from some political factions but caused confusion and anger within the central political bloc and the Jewish community in France.
The absence of Macron at a major anti-Semitism march in November 2023 has further fueled discontent.
During a ceremony organized by the Council of French Jewish Institutions (CRIF) to honor the victims of the attacks, Prime Minister Michel Barnier reassured the audience of the government's commitment to combat anti-Semitism and protect Jewish citizens.
However, Macron's remarks have been perceived as either dismissive or cynical by some attendees, highlighting the tension between political intentions and public perception.