France has suspended all evacuations from Gaza after a Palestinian student allegedly reposted antisemitic content online. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot made the announcement, stating that an inquiry into the case is underway. He called the incident unacceptable and confirmed that the student would be deported.
Barrot declared that the student no longer had a place in France. He stressed that the government would not tolerate antisemitic remarks. Although he did not specify whether she would be returned to Gaza, he confirmed her expulsion from Sciences Po Lille, her university.
The news quickly dominated headlines and sparked intense public and political reaction. France’s interior minister described the student’s online activity as “Hamas propaganda,” adding to the controversy. Barrot acknowledged that the initial vetting—conducted jointly by French and Israeli authorities—failed to detect the offensive content. He emphasized that the matter could not be ignored and confirmed that Gaza evacuations would remain paused during the investigation.
Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, France has evacuated hundreds from Gaza, including journalists, aid workers, and civilians. Just days before the scandal, Barrot had reaffirmed France’s commitment to assisting starving journalists in Gaza. The abrupt halt has now cast uncertainty over the future of those operations.
Barrot also addressed the broader humanitarian crisis. He described conditions in Gaza as “inhumane” and called the situation a scandal that must end. His remarks highlighted France’s concern for civilian suffering, while also underlining the importance of firm policies against antisemitism.
Sciences Po Lille confirmed the student’s removal, citing a direct violation of the institution’s core values. The school emphasized its commitment to fighting antisemitism, racism, discrimination, and hate speech. Officials said her reposts could not be ignored and did not align with academic or ethical standards.
France’s Minister of Higher Education, Philippe Baptiste, also condemned the student’s alleged behavior. He stated that France has no obligation to host students who support terrorism, hate speech, or crimes against humanity. According to Baptiste, any international student who promotes such ideas—whether from Gaza or elsewhere—will not be welcome.
Several senior ministers echoed this stance. They confirmed the matter had been referred to judicial authorities. Their strong response reflects the government’s zero-tolerance approach to antisemitism, even as it grapples with urgent humanitarian needs.
The case reveals growing tension between France’s domestic security priorities and its humanitarian commitments. The suspension of evacuations leaves many in Gaza unsure about their fate. As the inquiry continues, France remains firm: no further evacuations will occur until the issue is resolved.
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