Tensions between the two nations have escalated since Macron announced last month that France intends to formally recognise Palestinian statehood in September at the United Nations General Assembly. Netanyahu wrote a letter to Macron earlier this week ...

France has defended its record on combating antisemitism after Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu accused Emmanuel Macron of emboldening hate attacks against Jews by pledging to recognise a Palestinian state.

After the Israeli prime minister condemned Macron's plan to recognize Palestinian statehood, claiming it 'encourages the Jew-hatred now stalking [France's] streets,' the Elysée Palace responded by insisting that it 'protects and will always protect its Jewish citizens.