Tensions between Israel and France have escalated sharply after the Israeli government cancelled visas for 27 French lawmakers and officials just days before their planned visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. The move, condemned by French diplomats as a “deliberate diplomatic affront,” comes as Paris inches closer to formally recognizing a Palestinian state.

The delegation, composed of left-wing legislators and municipal officials, had planned to meet with both Israeli and Palestinian leaders, as well as humanitarian organizations in the occupied West Bank. Israeli authorities claimed the visa cancellations were due to “national security concerns,” but did not elaborate. The French foreign ministry has dismissed the explanation as political retaliation.

The spat follows growing frustration in Tel Aviv over French President Emmanuel Macron’s increasingly critical stance on Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and southern Lebanon. Macron has labeled multiple Israeli airstrikes “unjustified,” and publicly supported an international push for a ceasefire. French officials have also indicated their readiness to recognize Palestinian statehood, potentially in coordination with other EU nations.

Adding fuel to the fire, two French consulate staffers were briefly detained by Israeli police during a visit to a French-administered church in Jerusalem. The incident took place during a diplomatic trip by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and prompted a formal protest from Paris. The Israeli government has offered no apology.

While Israel claims France is interfering in domestic affairs under the guise of diplomacy, French officials argue that Israeli obstruction is undermining longstanding bilateral cooperation. “This is not just a breakdown in protocol,” said a French diplomatic source. “It’s a message that dissent will be punished.”

The Crustian Daily will continue to monitor the deterioration in relations between France and Israel, and the broader implications for European recognition of Palestinian statehood.