In a dramatic diplomatic showdown, France has summoned American Ambassador Charles Kushner to address his provocative letter to President Emmanuel Macron. In this letter, Kushner claimed that France has failed to take adequate measures against rising antisemitism.

The French Foreign Ministry promptly labeled Kushner’s assertions as "unacceptable" and asserted that France vehemently denies these allegations. They emphasized their commitment to combating the disturbing increase in antisemitic incidents that have surged over the last two years.

Kushner’s comments were deemed a violation of international norms regarding the sovereignty of nations, with the ministry stating that they strained the vital transatlantic partnership that the U.S. and France have long shared.

This incident highlights a burgeoning rift between the U.S. and its European allies, occurring against a backdrop of escalating tensions surrounding Israel's military operations in Gaza.

In his open letter published in the Wall Street Journal, Kushner lamented the long-standing antisemitism that has afflicted French society, particularly noting a spike since the brutal Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. He argued that public critique of Israel and moves towards recognizing a Palestinian state empower extremists and jeopardize Jewish safety in France.

The U.S. State Department voiced its support for Kushner’s remarks, reinforcing his role as a critical representative for American interests in France. The spokesperson praised his contributions amid ongoing tensions.

French authorities, on the other hand, have expressed intentions to formally recognize a Palestinian state in September, a position also adopted by other countries like Australia and Canada.

Last week, Macron rebuffed accusations from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that this recognition could exacerbate antisemitism, labeling such claims as "abject" and "erroneous."

France boasts the largest Jewish community in Europe, with around 500,000 Jewish individuals making up roughly 1% of the country’s population.

In his letter, Kushner urged Macron to take vigorous action to protect Jewish communities, calling upon him to enforce hate crime laws strictly and ensure the security of Jewish institutions.

Kushner, a real estate mogul and father of Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening U.S.-France relations during his confirmation hearing earlier this year. This latest exchange, however, suggests a complex dynamic in this longstanding alliance.