Outrage Over French MP’s Remarks Against Israeli Olympians

Thomas Portes Accused of Endangering Athletes Amid Gaza Attack

An MP from France Unbowed, Thomas Portes, caused a stir by declaring Israeli athletes unwelcome at the upcoming Paris Olympics, sparking significant backlash.

Protest Remarks

Thomas Portes, at a pro-Palestinian gathering in Paris, voiced his opposition to the presence of Israeli athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, citing the ongoing Gazas massacre attack. He urged for mobilization against their participation, stating, “The Israeli delegation is not welcome in Paris.”

CRIF’s Response

Yonathan Arfi, head of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France (CRIF), condemned Portes’ remarks as “indecent” and “irresponsible.” He accused Portes of endangering Israeli athletes, recalling the 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy where 11 Israeli athletes were killed by Palestinian terrorists.

Call for IOC Action

Portes later suggested that French diplomats should pressure the International Olympic Committee to ban the Israeli flag and anthem, drawing a parallel with Russia’s ban. “It’s time to end the double standards,” he stated.

Political Backlash

Karen Taieb, a deputy mayor of Paris, criticized Portes, labeling him a “danger and a disgrace” and accusing him of advocating hatred. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin highlighted the “hints of antisemitism” in Portes’ comments and assured that Israeli athletes would receive 24-hour protection during the Olympics.

Solidarity with Israeli AthletesSocialist MP Jérôme Guedj emphasized that all athletes, including Israelis, are welcome at the Games for their athletic achievements, not their nationalities. He posted, “Of course, Israeli athletes are welcome, like all athletes from all over the world. Not for who they are, but for what they do.”

Official French Stance

French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné reassured the Israeli delegation of their welcome in France at a meeting with EU counterparts in Brussels. He stated, “I want to say on behalf of France, to the Israeli delegation, we welcome you to France for these Olympic Games.”

Upcoming Events

Israel’s football team is set to play against Mali at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris, two days before the Olympic opening ceremony. Israeli President Isaac Herzog is expected to attend a boat parade on the Seine and a commemoration for the Israeli athletes killed in Munich in 1972.