Prominent Muslim activist stands trial in French politically motivated attack to silence Pro-Palestine activism

Paris - Elias d’Imzalene stands on trial today in a politically motivated attack on a prominent pro-Palestine activist and critic of French state-sponsored Islamophobia. This case challenges the state's deceitful portrayal of anti-racism and anti-Zionism voices as a threat to French society and constitutes a clear attempt to suppress those advocating for an end to the genocide in Gaza. 
 
Central to this case is Elias's use of the term "intifada, "meaning "uprising” at an anti-genocide rally in September 2024.  Although the term is commonly used in peaceful mobilisations worldwide, the French government and media have sensationalised the term to target Elias. This manipulation aims to instil fear, increase securitisation, and suppress pro-Palestine activists and outspoken Muslims.

Elias has consistently advocated for non-violent resistance against genocide and state-sponsored Islamophobia. The exaggerated charges of inciting hatred and violence for using the term "intifada" could result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years. 

Elias d’Imzalene is charged with:

1. Incitement to hatred or violence against a person or group of persons on the grounds of their origin, nation, race or specific religion 

2. Aggravated public incitement to commit intentional attacks on life or physical integrity

3. Public incitement to commit crimes or offences that undermine the fundamental interests of the nation

The charges undermine fundamental rights to freedom of assembly, association, and expression. By equating calls to end genocide with incitement to hatred, the French government exposes its malicious intent and the lengths it will go to silence dissent.

This targeted suppression is evident across Europe, where states partnering with Israel in its genocide use any pretext to disrupt and silence expressions of solidarity. This has been evident in the UK with the case of Marieha Hussain and arrests at pro-Palestine demonstrations. 

 Activists like Elias represent the widespread sentiment of the French population, with polls showing that half of the public supports sanctions and an arms trade ban against Israel. Nevertheless, the pro-Israel political class tries to undermine this support by targeting prominent figures and exploiting anti-Muslim prejudices.

CAGE International stands in full solidarity with Elias d’Imzalene in his fight against unjust persecution.
Rayan Freschi, Coordinator of the Support Elias campaign and CAGE International researcher, said:
“This case is unprecedented as the State seeks to outlaw any condemnation of the genocide and any peaceful call to mobilise against it. It is a symbol of France’s complicity in the genocide. The State is seeking to silence and intimidate anyone daring to speak up against the crimes of the zionist regime. Freedom of expression for Muslims and anyone supporting Palestinians is severely threatened. We stand in solidarity with Elias and any persecuted activist.”