On Sunday afternoon, a large demonstration of support for French “republican” values and against anti-Semitism will take place, with a significant twist: for the first time, representatives of the extreme right will attend, while the extreme left has declined significantly to participate. join in.
This development marks a profound change in French politics, as the far right, historically shunned for its anti-Semitic views, now finds itself embraced by the mainstream. Marine Le Pen, the three-time presidential candidate for the National Rally (former National Front), and the young president of her party, Jordan Bardella, will be among the attendees.
However, their presence has sparked controversy, with Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, dismissing the march as a “date for staunch supporters of the massacre of Gazans “. This refusal to participate highlights the growing division within French politics, as the far left, traditionally vocal in its opposition to anti-Semitism, now finds itself accused of the very thing it claims to be fighting.
The symbolic importance of this change cannot be overstated. For decades, the far right was considered beyond the pale, its views considered incompatible with French republican values. Meanwhile, the extreme left, although often criticized, was still considered part of the political family. However, today’s far right has rebranded itself, focusing on immigration, insecurity and Islamism, finding common cause with many Jews on these issues.
On the other hand, the extreme left, analyzing the Gaza conflict through an anti-colonial lens, has aligned itself with the Palestinians, leading to accusations of anti-Semitism for not having condemned Hamas as a terrorist organization.
This new situation raises important questions about the future of French politics. Can the far right really shake off its anti-Semitic past and become a mainstream player? And will the far left’s stance on Israel alienate its traditional base of support?
Undoubtedly, these developments will shape the political landscape of France and serve as a point of reference for the future of European politics.
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