Protests erupted this week in Paris against the "Israel is Forever" gala, which was organized by far-right figures to support Israel's military. The event, which featured Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich as one of the prominent guests, was scheduled against the backdrop of rising tensions following the recent conflicts in the Middle East.
The situation escalated as the gala coincided with the highly-anticipated soccer match between France and Israel, set to take place at the national stadium. This proximity heightened fears of violence, prompting authorities to deploy over 4,000 police officers alongside 1,600 stadium staff to manage the crowd and maintain order.
Smotrich, known for his controversial position on Israeli settlements, had assumed the spotlight at the gala. Despite previous confirmations, his office announced on the day of the event he would no longer attend, perhaps sensing the increasing backlash. His invitation triggered outrage from local organizations, unions, and left-wing political factions, leading to two separate protest marches through the streets of Paris.
The French Foreign Ministry condemned Smotrich's sentiments, asserting they contradict international law and undermined efforts to achieve regional peace. The ministry reaffirmed France's commitment to the two-state solution, which envisions both Israelis and Palestinians coexisting peacefully.
One of the main organizers, Nili Kupfer-Naouri, faced criticism for her inflammatory statements during last year's Israel-Hamas conflict, during which she claimed no civilians in Gaza were innocent. Amid the protests, demonstrators labeled the gala as one promoting “hatred and shame.” Melkir Saib, one protester, reflected the disdain felt by many: “Imagine if an association were hosting a gala for Hezbollah or Hamas — there’s no way the police would allow it.”
Although the protests remained largely peaceful, there were instances of agitation, including smashed windows at nearby businesses. On the other hand, Jewish leftist organizations also gathered to demonstrate against racism and antisemitism, showing solidarity with those opposing Smotrich's views.
Meanwhile, Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez defended the gala, claiming it didn’t pose significant threats to public order. Yet, the recent surge of anti-Israel sentiment reflected through demonstrations, particularly during high-profile events, raised alarm bells. Notably, just days prior to the protests, tensions flared during sporting events, including the display of a massive "Free Palestine" banner at a Paris Saint-Germain Champions League match and violence targeting Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam.
Authorities, recognizing the sensitive atmosphere, took extensive security measures for the France vs. Israel match. The event was dubbed “high-risk” by the police, with Chief Nuñez noting the unusual precautions deemed necessary due to rising anti-Semitic sentiments and the potential for clashes between rival fans.
With the eyes of the world on them, French officials confirmed there would be at least one officer for every three attendees at the game. To mitigate threats, Israeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad, were also present to monitor the situation closely.
Protesters expressing their discontent, armed with Palestinian flags, voiced their grievances not only at the gala but across the city, amplifying calls for justice and condemnation against perceived injustices. Amidst these protests, police were tasked with ensuring the safety of all individuals, though some activists criticized the government for allowing the gala to proceed.
The protests and the gala highlighted the deeply ingrained tensions surrounding Israeli-Palestinian relations. With the current political climate and recent flare-ups, many fear for the safety of attendees—both players and fans alike—during public events related to Israel.
The Israeli football team, apprehensive due to the violent undertones surrounding recent conflicts and protests, trained under tight security. The management, emphasizing the players' safety, requested absolute confidentiality on their whereabouts.
Some safety measures were so stringent they included audible monitoring of streets the players would travel. Bars and restaurants nearby have been instructed to close down for the day, adding to the already strained atmosphere surrounding the match.
Calls for relocating the game to neutral venues have emerged as officials weigh the safety risks against the game's significance. Historically, these conflicts have altered the dynamics of international sport, prompting many organizations to reconsider scheduling fixtures amid rising tensions.
Even top government officials have recognized the delicate situation, with comments reflecting the high accountability on the event organizers and law enforcement. Surveillance and security measures were ramped up across the city, reaffirming France's commitment to protecting its citizens amid rising concerns surrounding acts of violence against Jewish communities.
On another note, the possibility of anti-Semitic violence continued to ripple through Europe, evident by the recent attacks targeting Israeli fans in Amsterdam. Such events have prompted widespread concern over the safety of Jewish individuals and groups throughout the continent.
While the Israeli team planned to go to France for the match, there have been stark warnings against traveling to this high-stakes event. Reports indicated minimal ticket sales, with many fans deciding to forgo participation due to security fears.
Adding to the equation is the fact several games have been relocated to neutral grounds recently due to rising tensions, signalling the international community is grappling with the consequences of the enduring conflict extending beyond just political discourse.
Paris was set to bear witness to another significant chapter concerning Israeli-Palestinian relations, where sporting events are often catalysts for broader discussions on international peace efforts and humanitarian efforts for those affected.
French President Emmanuel Macron is also expected to attend the match, underscoring the political weight carried by such international fixtures during times of crisis. His presence reflects the government's active stance on addressing both security concerns and the broader conversations around the Middle Eastern conflict.
Overall, the protests and the planned gala demonstrate the volatile interplay between politics, community sentiments, and public demonstrations surrounding hot-button issues. With rising global tensions impacting local discourse, Paris stands as the stage for important dialogues around peace, advocacy, and security on the eve of one of its most storied soccer matches.
