French Minister’s Absence from Ramadan Iftar Cited as a Laïcité Stance Raises Questions

Bruno Retailleau’s decision not to attend the Grande Mosquée de Paris iftar highlights diplomatic tensions with Algeria and debates on secularism in France.

Bruno Retailleau declined an invitation to the Grande Mosquée de Paris iftar, citing adherence to the principle of laïcité.
Chems-Eddine Hafiz, the mosque's rector, expressed regret over Retailleau’s absence, emphasizing the iftar’s cultural significance rather than religious connotations.
Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, attended the event and advocated for calm during a period of strained Franco-Algerian relations.
The mosque, historically tied to Algeria, has faced criticism over its connections to the country, particularly during the current diplomatic crisis.
Hafiz urged that the diplomatic tensions not be used as justification for targeting Algerian dual nationals or French citizens of Algerian origin.