Macron denounces surging anti-Semitism and Israeli airstrikes targeting civilians

France, with its large Jewish and Muslim populations, is deeply affected by the Israel-Gaza conflict. A recent poll indicated that over 70% of French people are concerned about the spillover of tensions and violence from the Middle East. There has been a significant increase in antisemitic acts across the country, prompting worries about general security, as well as the rise of Islamophobia. President Emmanuel Macron expressed his concern for those affected by the conflict in Gaza, particularly women, babies, and the elderly who have nothing to do with terrorist attacks. He called for the bombings to stop and emphasized the need for a humanitarian ceasefire to protect civilians in Gaza. Unlike the US, France is considered less influential in the Israel-Hamas conflict. President Macron also acknowledged the terrorist attack by Hamas and expressed solidarity with Israel's right to protect itself, while emphasizing that international rules of war and humanitarian law must be respected. He called for a ceasefire, stating that it would benefit Israel as the images of military strikes in Gaza were fueling resentment. President Macron's words hold more weight back home in France, where tensions and demonstrations against antisemitism have become politically charged. Marine Le Pen's hard-right National Rally party's participation in an upcoming demonstration against antisemitism has added to the political nature of the event. President Macron has urged the country to unite against antisemitism and incitement of hatred. However, he faced criticism for not attending the demonstration in person.