Palestine – and Islamophobia – are on the ballot in France

JVL Introduction

In eight months time France will vote in a new President and:

“From left-wing candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon, whose pro-Palestine rhetoric has helped bolster his support, to National Rally (RN) figures seeking closer ties with Israel, analysts said Palestine could emerge as not only a major foreign policy issue but also a defining electoral fault line during the campaign.”

Some politicians have ignored the mood of the overwhelming majority of people who want stronger action against Israel and more support for Palestine and its beleaguered people. France recognised Palestine before the UK (eventually) did; but it is also much more than a foreign policy issue and is regarded as a key issue of leadership. Palestine and Israel are also key elements of rising Islamophobia and antisemitism.

This article was originally published by The New Arab on Sun 30 Aug 2026. Read the original here.