French Socialist Leader calls for Palestinian Flag Displays on Rosh Hashanah
PARIS – Olivier Faure, president of teh Socialist Party in France, ignited controversy this week by suggesting French town halls display the Palestinian flag on September 22, coinciding with Rosh hashanah, the Jewish New Year. The call came as President Emmanuel Macron prepares to announce France’s recognition of a Palestinian State during a conference in New York co-chaired by Paris and Riyadh.
Faure’s statement, made on X (formerly Twitter) in response to a user pointing out the date’s significance, argued that opposing the simultaneous recognition of both a Palestinian state and the celebration of Rosh Hashanah would “only sow hatred, despair and death.” The proposal has drawn swift criticism from Jewish community leaders who accuse faure of insensitivity and political maneuvering.
Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF), responded on X, questioning Faure’s past advocacy for other causes. Arfi noted the lack of similar calls for displays honoring hostages held in Gaza or recognizing other nations-South Sudan and Kosovo-upon their recognition by france. He characterized Faure’s suggestion as “demagogic and clientelist overbidding,” arguing France requires “appeasement.”
Macron’s anticipated proclamation of Palestinian state recognition follows a period of escalating tensions in the region and increasing international pressure for a two-state solution.France has historically maintained a pro-Palestinian stance,but formal recognition would mark a significant shift in policy. The timing of the announcement, and Faure’s subsequent call for public displays of support, have intensified debate within France regarding its foreign policy and domestic social cohesion.
