Over 100,000 people took to the streets of Paris on Sunday to denounce the rising wave of antisemitism in the country. The march drew a diverse crowd of individuals from various backgrounds, all united in their rejection of hate and discrimination.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, as well as representatives from different political parties. Among the notable figures present was far-right leader Marine Le Pen, whose appearance raised eyebrows due to her party’s alleged antisemitic heritage. President Emmanuel Macron, however, did not make an appearance at the march. Despite his absence, he expressed his support for the cause, urging citizens to stand up against antisemitism.
Paris was on high alert during the march, with 3,000 police troops deployed to ensure the safety and security of the participants. The city, which has the largest Jewish population in Europe, remains haunted by its dark history of collaboration with the Nazis during World War II.
The march held particular significance for the families of French citizens affected by the recent conflict in Gaza. It was seen as a meaningful and symbolic demonstration of solidarity, reassuring the Jewish communities in France that their voices are being heard.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to a disturbing rise in antisemitic acts in France. Since its initiation, authorities have registered over 1,000 such acts across the country. In response, President Macron penned a heartfelt letter to the French people, vowing to prosecute and punish those responsible for these hateful acts.
It is worth noting that the leader of the far-left France Unbowed party, Jean-Luc Melenchon, did not attend the march. Melenchon cited his support for the conflict in Gaza as his reason for not being present at the event.
While pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been largely prohibited in France, authorized protests have taken place in several cities throughout the country. The authorities are striving to strike a delicate balance between safeguarding freedom of expression and maintaining public order.
Overall, the massive turnout at the Paris march conveys a powerful message against antisemitism. The event serves as a poignant reminder that France’s commitment to combating hatred and intolerance remains strong, as the nation strives to ensure the safety and well-being of all its citizens.
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