Bernard Kouchner's Concerns Over Anti-Semitism in France
Former French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner has voiced serious concerns regarding the rise of anti-Semitism in France, attributing it to what he describes as the "asymmetric war" waged by Israel on the Gaza Strip. Speaking on Radio G, Kouchner stated, "How can one not feel anti-Semitic when one sees the devastation caused by the Israeli army? Look at Gaza, it is a place of killing, disaster, and families being torn apart." He highlighted the emotional turmoil caused by the ongoing conflict, particularly in light of the recent Hamas attacks on October 7, which he condemned as a catalyst for anger and violence.
Kouchner, who served as foreign minister from 2007 to 2010, noted that while the military response from Israel was initially seen as legitimate, the continuation of this approach has led to a tragic loss of life, with estimates suggesting up to 40,000 casualties in Gaza. He lamented the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, stating, "A huge number of people were killed; it's a deadly response... and I spent my life treating people."
Dramatic Increase in Anti-Semitic Incidents
The rise of anti-Semitism in France has been alarming, with French authorities reporting an increase of 1,000% in anti-Semitic acts in the last quarter of 2023 following the Hamas attacks. Recent statistics indicate that in the first quarter of 2024 alone, there were 887 recorded incidents, nearly three times the number from the same period the previous year. Kouchner described anti-Semitism as "the science of fools" and a deep-rooted evil within society, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort to combat it.
The Humanitarian Perspective
Known as the "French Doctor," Kouchner has a long history of humanitarian work, having founded Doctors of the World and provided aid in conflict zones including Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Sarajevo. His experiences have shaped his views on the current conflict, as he calls for a more humane response to the crisis in Gaza. He insists that while the feelings of anger and resentment may be understandable, they should not lead to a rise in anti-Semitism. Kouchner's comments reflect a broader concern among humanitarian workers about the impact of war on civilian populations and the potential for societal divisions in response to international conflicts.
