In brief
Jordan Bardella, the young leader of France's far-right National Rally, is set to make a groundbreaking visit to Israel, symbolizing a shift in the party's image as it confronts a history of antisemitism.
Bardella's trip is highlighted by his commitment to combat antisemitism, calling it a “poison.” He is scheduled to attend a conference in Jerusalem aimed at addressing this issue and will visit places in Israel that suffered from Hamas attacks. This visit is noteworthy since no previous leader of the National Rally, formerly National Front, has officially visited Israel. The party's anti-Islamist stance has led them to ally with Israel against groups like Hamas. Many French Jews are wary of this alliance, with prominent figures like Bernard-Henri Lévy distancing themselves from Bardella's approach. Despite the historical baggage associated with the party—especially with its founder's notorious comments about the Holocaust—Bardella aims to project a new image of solidarity. As the party navigates its complex history, this visit to Israel could signal a significant change in its political course and public perception.
