Macron Faces Backlash for Attending Hanukkah Ceremony at Elysée Palace

Critics argue the event breaches France's strict secularism laws, sparking a nationwide debate.

French President Emmanuel Macron is facing backlash for attending a Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony at the Elysée Palace, with critics arguing it breaches the country's strict secularism laws.
The event, which took place two days before the anniversary of the 1905 law separating church and state, has been criticized by politicians across the political spectrum, as well as by the head of France's top Jewish group.
Macron defended the event, arguing that he was not participating in a religious ceremony but was present at the presentation of an award for combating anti-Semitism and safeguarding religious freedoms.
Some speculate that Macron's attendance may have been an attempt to make amends for not participating in a march against anti-Semitism following the Hamas attacks in Israel.
The controversy comes amid increasing debates about secularism in France, with a recent poll suggesting that 78% of French Muslims feel it discriminates against them.