The Jewish community in France, the second largest in the world, is deeply concerned about the recent parliamentary elections results. The citizens of France have given first place to the United Left Party, which includes extreme left factions that have openly supported Hamas since October 7. This shift has exacerbated fears among the Jewish population, with approximately half a million Jews now feeling more threatened than ever.
The fear of the extreme right preventing Jews from practicing their religion has been replaced by a greater existential fear of an extreme left government supported by about 10 million Muslims, some of whom hold extreme views. Recent demonstrations have seen French flags replaced by those of Hamas and Jihad, symbolizing the changing political landscape. On July 7, nine months after the October 7 attacks, France has found itself in the most extreme political situation since the Vichy government.
Emmanuel Macron is largely blamed for this outcome. To maintain his presidency, he formed an alliance with the extreme left to prevent the extreme right from ruling, despite Marine Le Pen's party winning the European Parliament elections a month ago. The parliamentary elections in France involve a two-round system, where a candidate must win over 50% of the votes in the first round or face a runoff. Macron's alliance with the extreme left has now led to a government that is anti-Israel and supportive of Hamas, further endangering French Jews.
The new government is unlikely to protect French Jews from attacks in cities like Paris and Marseille, fearing riots from young Muslims. The case of Sara Halimi, who was murdered on anti-Semitic grounds without her killer being prosecuted, is a stark reminder of the French establishment's neglect of the Jewish community. Many French Jews are now hiding their Jewish identity and avoiding reporting violent incidents to the police. The only viable option for many is to immigrate to Israel.
Since the war, there has been a significant increase in the desire of French Jews to immigrate to Israel. The violence, terrorism, and anti-Semitism have intensified, and the election results have only added to the urgency. This presents a unique opportunity for Israel to encourage aliyah from France, but it requires a dedicated action plan for the absorption of French Jews. Failure to act would be tantamount to abandoning them in their time of need.
- A huge surprise has emerged in the French parliamentary elections, with the left-wing alliance unexpectedly leading. The Socialists and remaining Republicans have rejected cooperation with Macron's government, making major reforms unlikely during his term until 2027. Former President François Hollande was elected to the National Assembly but ruled out running for Prime Minister.
- No coalition won an absolute majority, with the left-green New Popular Front securing around 182 seats. SPD foreign policy expert Michael Roth criticized Macron's failed attempt to strengthen the political center, while the Union faction in Germany expressed relief over the Le Pen party's performance.
- Marine Le Pen's sister, Marie-Caroline Le Pen, failed to enter the National Assembly, and Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced his resignation. Macron is now in a difficult position, with none of the three major camps able to form a majority capable of governing. The left-wing alliance has claimed the right to govern, but the future remains uncertain.
- The left-green alliance is expected to win 177 to 198 of the 577 seats, Macron's forces 152 to 169 seats, and the Rassemblement National 135 to 145 seats. Voter turnout was significantly higher than in previous years, indicating strong public engagement. The political landscape in France is now more fragmented than ever, with no clear path to stable governance.
