On April 15, 2025, a conference titled "Histoire de la Palestine et du projet sioniste du 19ème siècle à nos jours" was held at the École Normale Supérieure (ENS) of Lyon, featuring Pierre Stambul as the speaker. This event was authorized by the ENS administration and attracted approximately 200 attendees, including a group of around 15 Zionist individuals who disrupted the proceedings with loud insults and threats.
The conference aimed to discuss the historical context of Palestine and Zionism, which has become a contentious topic in France, particularly in academic settings. Despite the hostile environment, the conference went ahead, allowing students and supporters of the Palestinian cause to hear perspectives that some groups sought to silence. Stambul articulated controversial views, stating, "The Jews of today are not the descendants of the Judeans of antiquity; this fable was invented to justify a colonial conquest." He further criticized the role of Zionism, describing it as a "theory of separation, a settler colonialism, and a nationalism that invented a people, a language, and a land."
Following the event, the CGT union reported that numerous participants were verbally assaulted, with claims of racist and homophobic remarks made by the disruptors. The ENS administration confirmed that the individuals involved were not affiliated with the institution and expressed their commitment to upholding freedom of expression. However, they also noted that the atmosphere was charged with intimidation, leading to an abrupt end to the question-and-answer session.
In response to the disruption, the ENS filed a complaint for disturbing public order and obstructing freedom of expression. The administration emphasized that they had authorized the conference to ensure students' rights to association and expression. "The presidency firmly condemns such actions, which are a form of intimidation," stated the ENS in a communication to the press.
Stambul's statements during the conference included stark claims regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where he characterized the situation as a genocide. He asserted, "For a year and a half, genocide has unfolded before our eyes. No one can say 'we did not know.'" He criticized the mainstream media and political figures for perpetuating narratives that silence criticism of Israel's actions, claiming, "Netanyahu wants to stifle all voices denouncing his crimes. Trump wants to silence all places where people think and reflect."
In the aftermath of the conference, the UJFP (Union Juive Française pour la Paix) released a statement on April 17, 2025, condemning the actions of the "commando sioniste" that disrupted the event. They argued that such actions not only endangered Jews by attempting to force complicity in the violence against Palestinians but also represented a broader effort to silence dissenting voices within the Jewish community. The UJFP has long maintained that their stance against violence and for Palestinian rights is rooted in universal values.
Reports indicate that three individuals were slightly injured during the altercation, though no physical violence was officially documented beyond verbal confrontations. The ENS has since implemented support measures for students and staff affected by the incident, recognizing the emotional toll it took on those present. The CGT described the scene as one of "unprecedented fury," with participants feeling threatened and intimidated by the aggressive rhetoric of the intruders.
This incident reflects a growing trend of heightened tensions on French campuses regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Recently, other institutions, such as Sciences Po Lyon, have experienced similar disruptions, with pro-Palestinian students facing backlash from right-wing groups. The political climate surrounding these discussions has become increasingly polarized, with accusations of anti-Semitism often levied against those advocating for Palestinian rights.
In light of the ENS's actions, some political figures, including Rhône deputy Abdelkader Lahmar, have condemned the disruption as a "racist and homophobic aggression" that employed intimidation tactics to stifle democratic debate. The ENS's decision to file a complaint demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a space for open dialogue, even amidst the challenges posed by external pressures.
The ENS administration's stance has been clear: they aim to protect the rights of students to engage in discussions, even on controversial topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while also addressing the safety and well-being of all attendees. The university's actions will likely set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, as institutions grapple with balancing free expression against the backdrop of rising tensions and potential violence.
As the investigation into the events of April 15 continues, the ENS remains focused on ensuring that such incidents do not deter academic discourse or infringe upon the rights of students to express their views. The discourse surrounding Palestine and Zionism is far from settled, and the ENS's commitment to fostering an environment where these discussions can occur safely will be critical in the months to come.
