On Tuesday, France’s foreign ministry criticized the Israeli embassy for its “unacceptable” actions after it prohibited two French organizations, including elected officials, from entering Israel, claiming they were associated with a terrorist group.
In a statement released on Monday, the Israeli embassy declared that it would deny entry to anyone linked to the Decentralised Cooperation Network for Palestine or the France-Palestine Solidarity Association (AFPS) due to their connections with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, which is classified as a terrorist organization by both the United States and the European Union.
The affected delegations and associations were not immediately available for comment. The French foreign ministry expressed regret over Israel’s decision to revoke travel authorizations for the two delegations, which included elected officials, describing it as counterproductive and harmful to Franco-Israeli relations.
The ministry stated, “The public accusations made by the Israeli Embassy in France regarding these associations’ alleged ties to terrorist organizations are unacceptable,” and urged Israel to reconsider its decision. Recent months have seen tensions in Franco-Israeli relations, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and increasing concerns in Paris regarding Israel’s approach to the situation.
Earlier in April, President Emmanuel Macron indicated that France might recognize a Palestinian state later this year, contingent on certain conditions, which provoked a strong response from Israeli officials. The embassy defended its actions, asserting, “Israel is exercising its right, in accordance with local and international law, to prevent the entry of delegations from organizations that aim to undermine its existence and security.” It also encouraged any delegation member wishing to visit Israel to reach out to the Israeli Embassy to arrange a visit independent of any organization that supports terrorism.
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