Macron Slams U.S. Ambassador Kushner’s Criticism as “Unacceptable”

French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly rebuked Charles Kushner, the U.S. ambassador to France, calling his recent criticism of Macron’s stance on antisemitism “unacceptable.” This statement comes in response to a letter published in the Wall Street Journal in August, where Kushner expressed “deep concern” over rising antisemitism in France, linking the country’s foreign policy to violence against Jews.

In his letter, Kushner criticized Macron for what he perceived as insufficient action to address antisemitism, suggesting that public criticisms of Israel “embolden extremists” and endanger Jewish lives in France. He urged the French government to enforce hate-crime laws strictly, ensure the safety of Jewish institutions, and abandon policies that lend legitimacy to groups like Hamas.

During an interview with Margaret Brennan on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” Macron defended his administration’s actions, calling Kushner’s remarks a “mistake” and underscoring the importance of diplomatic decorum. He asserted, “This is unacceptable,” emphasizing that a French ambassador would never make similar public comments about another nation, as such statements could jeopardize diplomatic relations.

Macron highlighted that Kushner’s claims contradict the principles outlined in the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which obligates diplomats to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of other states. The French foreign ministry summoned Kushner last month to formally convey its disapproval of his statements.

In the context of Macron’s criticisms of Israeli policies, he stated that while some critiques of Israel might stem from antisemitism, disagreeing with the Israeli government does not inherently equate to being antisemitic. He noted, “I was the first president in France to adopt the definition of antisemitism, making it the equivalent of anti-Zionism.”

The French president also expressed concern over the ongoing violence in Gaza, asserting that his criticisms of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should not be misconstrued as hostility towards Jewish communities in France. Macron emphasized that dissenting opinions on Israel’s actions do not constitute antisemitism.

As the situation continues to evolve, Netanyahu has accused Macron of exacerbating antisemitism following France’s announcement that it would recognize Palestinian statehood during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York. This recognition, part of a broader initiative by France and Saudi Arabia, aims to facilitate a political solution that includes a ceasefire and the establishment of a Palestinian Authority.

The proposal entails multiple phases, starting with a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the release of hostages, and the restoration of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Macron stated that these conditions must be met before France would establish an embassy in the region.

During the interview, Macron reiterated the importance of recognizing Palestinian statehood as a means to address the ongoing conflict and provide a political resolution to the situation. He successfully engaged Mahmoud Abbas, the leader of the Palestinian Authority, to publicly denounce Hamas and agree to reforms that could lead to elections.

As the geopolitical landscape shifts, Macron’s stance places France at odds with the Trump administration, which has historically limited Palestinian representation in international forums. While President Donald Trump has acknowledged the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, his administration continues to support Israeli policies and military actions.

The developments surrounding Kushner’s remarks and Macron’s response underscore the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly in the context of sensitive issues such as antisemitism and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.