Israel Ends Boycott of France's Far-Right National Rally

Israeli Ambassador to France Joshua Zarka held a discreet meeting in Paris with Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party. The encounter follows a policy shift initiated in February 2025 by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, who ended Israel's boycott of far-right parties in France, Spain, and Sweden to foster ties with nationalist right figures.

This outreach occurs as relations deteriorate between Israel and French President Emmanuel Macron, who has criticized the Israeli government's actions. Despite their political differences, Le Pen has recently aligned with Macron in supporting a regional ceasefire that includes Lebanon, asserting it is France's duty to protect Lebanese sovereignty.

While Israel is now engaging the National Rally, it continues to avoid contact with Germany's Alternative for Germany party due to that organization's antisemitic roots. The diplomatic shift reflects a broader Israeli strategy to diversify its French political contacts.