France Halts Visa Renewals for El Al Security Staff in Paris Amid Gaza Tensions

French authorities have stopped renewing work visas for El Al flight security personnel in Paris, a move that began about six months ago amid rising tensions between France and Israel over the Gaza conflict. These security guards, classified as ITAN workers supporting diplomatic missions, have lost their legal residency status, with some forced to remain illegally or obtain temporary diplomatic visas through the Israeli embassy. El Al reportedly is distancing itself from the affected employees, directing them to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, and some guards have had to return to Israel. The French decision follows increased anti-Israel sentiment in France, highlighted by recent pro-Palestinian protests that targeted El Al offices with red paint and graffiti labeling the carrier a "genocide airline." Israeli and French officials are reportedly engaged in discussions to address the situation, with the Israeli Foreign Ministry coordinating with the French Foreign Ministry. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing humanitarian aid and security guarantees for Gaza alongside the disarmament of Hamas and the recognition of a Palestinian state.