Controversy Erupts as French Lawmaker Calls for Israeli Delegation to be Banned from Olympic Games
By Palestine Chronicle Staff 
A left-wing French parliament member, Thomas Portes, has sparked a heated debate by stating that the Israeli delegation should not be allowed to participate in the Olympic Games in Paris. Portes, from the France Unbowed party, emphasized that French diplomacy should urge the International Olympic Committee to exclude the Israeli flag and anthem from the Games, drawing parallels to the exclusion of Russia.
Despite facing backlash, Portes stood by his remarks, advocating for an end to what he called “double standards.” The French Interior Minister assured heightened security for Israeli athletes during the event, while opposing voices labeled Portes’ statements as incitement to hate. Nevertheless, some lawmakers and supporters echoed Portes’ call for fair treatment in international sporting events.
As France prepares to host the Olympics, the controversy raises questions about the intersection of politics, human rights, and sports on the global stage.