Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Paris on November 12 to protest against the rising antisemitism in France following Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The march was attended by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, representatives from various political parties, and far-right leader Marine Le Pen. However, President Emmanuel Macron did not attend but expressed his support and called on citizens to combat the "unbearable resurgence" of antisemitism.

Over 100.000 march against anti-semitism in Paris…

While some choose sides to flame hate… others come together to underline democratic values of tolerance and understanding…. especially in tense times ! pic.twitter.com/4yY7c8M2eO

— Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) November 12, 2023

The march, which saw the deployment of 3,000 police officers, was organized by the leaders of the Senate and the National Assembly in response to the alarming increase in anti-Jewish acts in the country since the conflict began. France, with the largest Jewish population in Europe, carries the burden of its collaboration with the Nazis during World War II, making antisemitic acts particularly sensitive. The participants, many holding French flags, emphasized that the march was more than a duty but a powerful statement against violence, antisemitism, and political extremities infiltrating society. Family members of French citizens affected by the conflict in Gaza also joined the march. The large turnout was seen as meaningful and symbolic in reassuring Jewish communities in France.

Patrick Klugman, a lawyer and member of the "Freethem committee" working to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, expressed his pride in the mobilization, stating that he felt less alone in the face of recent events. Since the conflict began, French authorities have recorded over 1,000 antisemitic acts, prompting Macron to vow in a letter addressed to the French that perpetrators would be prosecuted and punished. He stressed that a France in which Jewish citizens are afraid is not true to its values and called for unity and concerted efforts for peace and security in the Middle East.

Le Pen's attendance at the march, however, drew criticism due to her party's historical antisemitic ties. Despite the growing political legitimacy of her National Rally party, Le Pen and other far-right officials remained separate from government members and other officials leading the demonstration. The march marks the largest gathering against antisemitism in France since a protest in 1990 against the desecration of a Jewish cemetery. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been largely banned in France, although supporters have organized marches across different cities, including a protest calling for a ceasefire in Gaza on November 5.