Paris Protest Against Israeli Gala Featuring Smotrich Draws Hundreds

A protest erupted on Thursday, November 7, 2024, in Paris, France, against a planned gala for Israel that was set to host Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, whom the protesters denounce as a “war criminal.” Hundreds gathered at Trocadéro, near the Eiffel Tower—a prominent and historic landmark for tourists and locals alike—to demand that Smotrich, who is direct responsible for Israel’s bloody wars and ongoing occupation, be barred from France.

The protest attracted a wide range of supporters, including anti-Zionist Jews who received a warm welcome from the organizers and other protesters. Rabbi Dovid Feldman, one of the participating rabbis, addressed the crowd in English, with his words translated into French by the event organizers. Rabbi Feldman condemned Smotrich, labeling him not only a war criminal but also a radical settler terrorist. He stressed that Israel’s actions should not be carried out in the name of the Jewish people or the Jewish religion.

Following the speech, several media outlets interviewed the rabbis, who shared their sorrow and shame over the impact of Zionism on the Jewish faith. They emphasized that Zionism’s actions do not represent their religious values, reflecting the broader concerns held by many in attendance.