French Town Halls Defy Government by Flying Palestinian Flags Ahead of Macron's State Recognition Plans

Ahead of France's planned recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly, several French town halls defied government orders and flew Palestinian flags as a symbol of solidarity. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau issued a circular urging prefects to oppose such displays, citing the principle of neutrality in public service, but mayors from left-wing parties and Socialist leader Olivier Faure encouraged the flag-raising as a gesture consistent with France's international position. Some towns faced legal challenges and were forced to remove the flags, while others, like Malakoff and Nantes, kept them displayed. Paris authorities also showcased Palestinian and Israeli flags together on the Eiffel Tower, promoting peace and the two-state solution ahead of the recognition. The debate reflects wider political divisions, with the government cautious about politicizing the gesture amid France's large Jewish and Muslim populations and ongoing conflict in Gaza. The issue has sparked protests and discussions on freedom of expression, neutrality of public services, and France’s role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.