PARIS (Reuters) -France accused Israel of damaging bilateral relations on Thursday. Israeli security forces entered a French-administered holy site in Jerusalem and detained two French diplomats. This situation only adds to the existing France Israel tensions, which have been growing over recent political disagreements. #FranceIsraelTensions
The incident occurred as French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot prepared to visit the Church of the Pater Noster on the Mount of Olives. This site, overseen by France, is one of four under Paris’ responsibility.
French diplomatic sources said Israeli forces had been instructed not to enter before Barrot’s visit. Despite that, they did, prompting Barrot to cancel his visit while security forces were present. The arrest of two French officials escalated tensions.
Israel’s foreign ministry stated that an argument unfolded between Israeli forces and the French guards. The guards were released immediately upon identifying themselves as diplomats.
The dispute strains already tense relations between the countries, exacerbated by Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
“This violation of the integrity of a site under French responsibility risks undermining the ties I had come to nurture with Israel at a time when we all need to move forward the region on the path to peace”, a visibly angry Barrot told reporters outside the building.
Israel’s foreign ministry stated that all visiting foreign leaders must be escorted by its security teams. This requirement had been “clarified in advance” during discussions with the French Embassy in Israel.
However, a French diplomatic source countered by accusing Israel of spreading “false allegations” and indicated that the matter remained unresolved. The French foreign ministry announced plans to summon Israel’s ambassador to Paris in the coming days.
Relations between France and Israel have soured since President Macron called for a halt to the delivery of offensive weapons to Israel used in Gaza. France also sought to ban Israeli weapons firms from a Paris trade fair. Concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon continue to grow. #FranceIsraelTensions
Escalating France Israel Tensions Amid Regional Conflicts and Military Operations
Moreover, the dispute comes amid wider concerns about Israel’s policies in Gaza and Lebanon. France has expressed frustration with Israel’s military operations, which have contributed to strained relations. As a result, the France Israel tensions have become more complex, with France calling for stronger diplomatic efforts to address the regional conflicts.
