Pro-Israel gala in Paris faces backlash

(CLO) On Wednesday evening, a large protest broke out in Paris to protest a controversial gala organized by far-right figures to raise funds for the Israeli army.

The event, which is expected to be attended by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, has drawn strong criticism from many organizations and political parties in France.

Protesters and police clash during a demonstration in Paris, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, ahead of the soccer match between France and Israel. AP Photo/Louise Delmotte

The “Israel is Forever” gala, organized by an association of the same name, caused tension ahead of the soccer match between the Israeli and French national teams at the national stadium. The match took place against the backdrop of continuing conflicts in the Middle East. To ensure security, Paris authorities mobilized more than 4,000 police officers and 1,600 stadium security personnel for the event.

Mr Smotrich, who has been a strong supporter of Israeli settlements, was invited to the dinner but cancelled his trip after a backlash. His views on the possibility of annexing the West Bank have drawn international criticism, including from the French foreign ministry, which said the plan was “contrary to international law” and would further complicate tensions in the region.

Nili Kupfer-Naouri, president of the Israel Forever association, has also caused controversy with his uncompromising remarks about civilians in Gaza, which has further angered the public. Protests against the gala attracted hundreds of people, with slogans against the gala and Mr. Smotrich calling it a “gala of hate and shame.”

Although the protests were largely peaceful, some protesters smashed the windows of a McDonald's restaurant along the parade route. Another group, including left-wing Jewish organizations, also gathered near the Arc de Triomphe to protest.

Paris police chief Laurent Nunez said the party posed no serious threat to public order and stressed the right to freedom of assembly in France. The event came after a series of tense events in Paris and Amsterdam over the conflict in the Middle East.

Hong Hanh (according to AP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/da-tiec-ung-ho-israel-o-paris-bi-phan-doi-du-doi-post321272.html