French Police Fire Water Cannon, Teargas at Banned Pro-Palestinian Protests

French Police Fire Water Cannon, Teargas at Banned Pro-Palestinian Protests
Image copyright: Remon Haazen [via Getty Images]

The Spin

Narrative A

The Israel-Hamas conflict can stoke tensions in France — home to some of Europe's largest Muslim and Jewish populations. While Israel defends itself, the French government is dutybound to ensure the conflict doesn't destabilize the country. Antisemitism and terrorism must be condemned, irrespective of who perpetuates it.

Narrative B

The ban is a threat to freedom of expression. Europe, particularly France, is governed by civil law, which means every citizen has the right to take a stand and protest. It's unfair to forbid natives from supporting the Palestinian people when no such restrictions have been announced for people standing by Israel.

Narrative C

Israel is at war with Hamas, not with Palestine. However, the definition between pro-Palestine and pro-Hamas is blurred in the latest conflict. While the protestors must refrain from glorifying the terrorists, the governments mustn't set a dangerous precedent by threatening the full force of law.

Metaculus Prediction


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