Report France Summons US Ambassador: Fury Over Antisemitism Claims

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Picture courtesy of CBS News

 

France has called in the U.S. ambassador after a controversial letter from Charles Kushner to President Emmanuel Macron accused France of inadequate action against rising antisemitism. The French foreign ministry branded Kushner's allegations "unacceptable", summoning him to the Quai d'Orsay for a meeting.

 

In a bold statement, France dismissed the claims, asserting that any rise in antisemitic acts since 7 October is being thoroughly addressed. The statement highlighted France's dedicated efforts to oppose these acts by labelling them "intolerable."

 

The foreign minister further criticised Kushner's actions as contradictory to international law, specifically the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which warns against meddling in another nation's affairs. They expressed that these allegations damage the essential trust between long-time allies France and the U.S.

 

While official comments from the White House and U.S. State Department remain absent, summoning the ambassador signifies a serious diplomatic discontent. Charles Kushner, known for his real estate empire, is the father of Jared Kushner, who is married to Ivanka Trump.

 

Details of the letter have not been disclosed. The situation adds tension to a recent disagreement involving Israel’s prime minister, who accused France’s moves toward recognising a Palestinian state of inciting antisemitism—a charge denied by Macron, reported CBS News.

 

With a Jewish population of around 500,000, France’s efforts to combat antisemitism are under global scrutiny. The timing adds strain to already tense U.S.-France relations amid trade disputes initiated by former president Trump. A decree enforcing import duties on goods valued under $800, effective from 29 August, has not been well received by France.

 

In response, France, alongside other European postal services, plans to suspend certain package shipments to the U.S., citing confusion over the new tariff regulations. Moreover, disagreements linger over U.N. peacekeeping operations in Lebanon, with France opposing the U.S.'s intent to reduce their scope.

 

Despite these rifts, a recent meeting between Trump and Macron showcased a slight thawing, particularly regarding support for Ukraine against Russia. However, the controversy over the Kushner letter seems set to stir further diplomatic challenges.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from CBS News 2025-08-26