Heightened Tensions in Paris Amid Protests and Security Concerns

Protests erupted in Paris against a pro-Israel gala organized by far-right figures, including Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who ultimately did not attend. The event, intended to support the Israeli military, faced backlash from local associations and political parties, leading to demonstrations on the eve of a France-Israel soccer match. The French Foreign Ministry criticized Smotrich's remarks on West Bank annexation, emphasizing a commitment to a two-state solution. Despite tensions, authorities deployed significant security for the match, maintaining that the gala posed no major threat to public order.