Palestine supporters in France facing growing pressure: French Jewish peace advocate

ANKARA (AA) – Palestine supporters in France are facing growing pressure amid rising government restrictions, according to the honorary president of the French Jewish Union for Peace (UJFP).

In an interview with Anadolu, Richard Wagman expressed concern over the escalating police violence against demonstrators supporting Palestinians in his country.

He said the state’s response to the movements, which also oppose French government policies, has become increasingly punitive since Israel’s war on Gaza began on Oct. 7 last year.

Wagman said the current atmosphere in the country reflects a “climate of fear” and a gradual erosion of fundamental rights.

Regardless of the violence and oppression, Wagman said “the struggle for justice” cannot be suppressed.

– Silence of international community –

Wagman also criticized the international community’s response to the Gaza conflict, accusing it of complicity through its silence.

He highlighted that any action targeting civilians is a war crime.

He also suggested that media outlets are obscuring the severity of the situation with biased reporting.

In recent weeks, several politicians, activists and comedians in France have been charged with spreading “terror propaganda” following statements in favour of Palestine and protests against Israeli actions in Gaza.

– Israel’s year-long onslaught –

Israel has continued its war on Gaza despite a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire. It has killed nearly 41,900 people, mostly women and children, and injured over 97,100 others, according to local health authorities.

The Israeli onslaught has displaced almost the entire population of the territory.

Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza.