France summons US envoy over antisemitism claims

France has summoned the US ambassador after the American government accused it of failing to address a surge in antisemitism since the recent Gaza conflict. The French government strongly denies these allegations, stating that they are taking the issue of antisemitism very seriously and have implemented various measures to combat it. The dispute arose after the US special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism, Deborah Lipstadt, claimed that France was experiencing a "dramatic increase" in antisemitic incidents following the conflict in Gaza. However, the French authorities have refuted these claims, insisting that they are actively working to protect Jewish communities and punish those responsible for any antisemitic acts. The French government has emphasized its commitment to combating all forms of discrimination and hate speech, and has highlighted the steps it has taken to address the issue, including increased security measures and legal actions against perpetrators. The summoning of the US ambassador underscores the sensitivity of this issue and the French government's determination to defend its record on tackling antisemitism.