Marion Maréchal, a prominent French far-right politician, made her first visit to Israel on March 26, 2025, touring the kibbutz Beeri and the site of the Nova Festival, both locations deeply scarred by the horrific attacks of October 7, 2023. These sites are not just geographical points on a map; they are stark reminders of the 364 victims who lost their lives during an Islamist assault that shocked the world.
During her visit, Maréchal shared her emotions through a series of photographs posted on social media platform X. Accompanying the images, she expressed her profound sorrow, stating, "At the Nova Festival site, one of the first targets of the Islamist attack on October 7, 2023, confronting the faces of the 364 victims truly brings home the horror. They came to celebrate, carefree, and their lives were stolen by the hatred and barbarism of Hamas." Her words resonate with the weight of grief that still lingers over the nation.
This trip is significant not only for the emotional encounters with the aftermath of violence but also politically. Maréchal is in Israel to participate in an international conference focused on combating anti-Semitism, a pressing issue that has garnered attention across Europe. Alongside her, Jordan Bardella, the leader of the National Rally (Rassemblement National, RN), is also present for the event, which is set to take place on March 27, 2025.
Importantly, this marks the first occasion in which representatives from the French far-right have been permitted on Israeli soil, highlighting a notable shift in diplomatic relations. The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has extended invitations to these figures, signaling a potential partnership against what they perceive as a common threat: Islamic terrorism.
Jordan Bardella, who arrived in Israel on March 25, 2025, is expected to deliver a speech before the Israeli President and Netanyahu during the conference. His discourse aims to affirm solidarity with the Jewish community, particularly in light of the rising tide of anti-Semitism in both Israel and Europe. Bardella stated, "I came here to speak about the necessary fight against anti-Semitism that prevails here in the Middle East, but increasingly grips France and Europe every day, and to express my solidarity with a people who have been victims of one of the most violent and painful barbarities."
Approximately 30 speakers from various nationalist parties are slated to address the conference, including representatives from Spain's anti-immigration VOX party and Hungary's Fidesz party, led by Viktor Orban. Maréchal is expected to participate in a roundtable discussion focusing on the Muslim Brotherhood, a topic that has sparked significant debate in European political circles.
The conference is organized by Amichai Chikli, Israel's Minister of Diaspora Affairs, who has been instrumental in reshaping how the Israeli government views far-right movements in Europe. Once considered a potential threat, Chikli now regards these parties as partners in the fight against anti-Semitism and Islamic extremism. This shift reflects a broader trend in Israeli politics, where alliances are formed based on mutual interests rather than historical animosities.
On March 27, 2025, Louis Aliot, the first vice-president of the RN, appeared on RTL's morning show, discussing the significance of Bardella and Maréchal's visit. He noted the unusual nature of the RN's reception in Israel, stating, "It feels like we’re not the RN that has been received here, but the future president of the CRIF," referring to the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions. This comment underscores the evolving perceptions of far-right parties in the context of international relations.
Philippe Caverivière, a comedian, humorously remarked on the unexpected nature of the RN's presence in Israel, saying, "When I saw Jordan and Marion Maréchal in Israel, the first thing I thought was how incredible AI can be; it’s hard to believe!" His quip reflects a broader skepticism and surprise regarding the changing dynamics of political acceptance.
The events unfolding in Israel are not just about a conference or political alliances; they symbolize a significant moment in the history of Israeli-French relations. As representatives from the far-right engage with Israeli leaders, the implications of their visit extend beyond immediate political concerns, touching on themes of identity, belonging, and the ongoing struggle against anti-Semitism.
As the conference progresses, it will be interesting to see how the discussions unfold and what commitments are made in the fight against anti-Semitism. With the backdrop of recent violence and the rising tensions in Europe, the stakes have never been higher. The presence of figures like Bardella and Maréchal in Israel may signal a new chapter in international alliances against extremism, one that could redefine the landscape of European politics.
In a world increasingly polarized by ideology, the visit of these far-right leaders to Israel could serve as a catalyst for deeper conversations about anti-Semitism, the role of nationalism, and the responsibilities of political leaders in fostering unity against hatred. As the conference draws attention from various media outlets, including BFMTV, the discussions will likely reverberate far beyond the walls of the conference hall, impacting public opinion and policy across Europe.
