In a recent interview broadcast on the community media platform Oumma, Aymeric Caron, a deputy aligned with La France Insoumise (LFI), expressed his views regarding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing what he perceives as a deep-seated racism within French society.

Following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent military response by Israel, Caron's statements reflect a continued critique of the official French stance towards the conflict.

Caron articulated a belief that France remains a 'racist country' that has failed to address its colonial past, particularly concerning North African nations.

He stated, "If the Palestinians are not of interest to France, it is because they are Arabs and Muslims." This claim suggests that the nation's historical links and prejudices might influence its political and humanitarian responses in the region.

During the interview, Caron notably distinguished between the actions of the Israeli Defense Forces (Tsahal) and the Jewish community in France, insisting that criticisms directed at Israel should not be construed as anti-Semitism.

He remarked, "It is essential not to confuse the Israeli army and Benjamin Netanyahu with a Jew living in France.

There is no link between the two." Caron also rebuked the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions (CRIF), accusing them of interpreting dissent against Gaza as an attack on French Jews.

Furthermore, Caron criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for allegedly obstructing foreign media access to Gaza amid heightened tensions.

He stated that there was an intentional effort to prevent journalists from entering the area, highlighting concerns about transparency in the reporting of humanitarian issues stemming from the conflict.

Caron's comments come amid a climate of heightened discourse regarding the Israeli-Palestinian situation in France, where various political figures and public statements have sparked significant public debate and controversy.