Diplomatic Incident Between France and Israel in Jerusalem

On November 7, 2023, during a visit to Jerusalem, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot encountered a diplomatic incident when armed Israeli police entered the Eléona site, a property owned by France, without prior authorization, according to Barrot.

The incident occurred at the Eléona site, a historic French national domain on the Mount of Olives. While the minister's delegation (but not the Minister who has refuse to entry inside the site while the illegaly presence of Israeli armed police was present). Two French gendarmes were arrested by Israeli police in a forceful manner. Following intense exchanges, the officers, who had identified themselves, were detained but later released after the minister’s intervention.

French Government’s Reaction:

Barrot condemned the violation of French-controlled property, stating it jeopardized diplomatic ties with Israel and undermined peace efforts in the region. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it would summon Israel’s ambassador in the coming days, expressing strong condemnation of the incident.

France criticized the brief detention of its officers as part of escalating tensions, especially given France’s efforts toward de-escalation in the Middle East. France’s ambassador to Israel was summoned over this entry, which France deemed "unacceptable" and unprecedented.

Israeli Response:

Israel denied responsibility, claiming security measures were prearranged with France’s embassy to ensure Barrot’s safety. Israeli authorities stated the officers were detained as they were initially unidentified and did not display diplomatic credentials. France disputes this account, maintaining that Israel was fully informed of the site’s protected status.

Context and Relations:

The incident exacerbates recent tension between France and Israel, which has grown due to French criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Eléona, a significant religious site, is one of four French national domains in Jerusalem, along with the Tomb of the Kings, the Basilica of St. Anne, and the Crusader commandery at Abu Ghosh.

France has managed these sites for over 150 years, they belong to France and are under diplomatic status. The entry of Israeli police is thus a sovereignty integrity violation

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