Paris Olympics and French basketball team

French basketball star Victor Wembanyama is excited to compete in the Paris Olympics, aiming to face off against top NBA players like LeBron James and Stephen Curry. France, led by Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert, is focused on winning its first Olympic gold medal in basketball.

French Politics and Elections

Tensions rise between Macron supporters and French far-right as Marine Le Pen casts doubt on Macron's ability to lead armed forces ahead of legislative elections. Polls suggest RN may win, with Le Pen potentially becoming prime minister. Macron facing criticism for calling snap election. Zelensky confident France will support Ukraine regardless of political situation.

Emmanuel Macron warns of 'civil war' in France over upcoming elections

Emmanuel Macron warns of 'civil war' in France if voters choose extreme right or left parties in upcoming elections. Macron criticizes National Rally and New Popular Front, claiming their agendas could lead to division and violence. Macron's comments spark backlash from opposition leader Bardella. Macron's presidency marked by chaos in streets, including Yellow Vest protests and pension reform strikes.

Emmanuel Macron's Political Challenges in France

Emmanuel Macron vows to continue 'acting' until 2027 amidst backlash and calls for resignation after poor election results. Facing challenges from far-right and far-left parties, Macron's centrist government is struggling in polls ahead of snap legislative elections.

Potential Civil Unrest in France Ahead of Elections

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin warns of potential civil unrest and violence in France related to upcoming elections. President Macron is not on the ballot but the election is seen as a referendum on his leadership.

Gang Rape of 12-Year-Old Jewish Girl in Paris Suburb

French President Macron and far-right rival Marine Le Pen condemn gang rape of 12-year-old Jewish girl in Paris suburb, categorize it as antisemitic attack. Macron calls for conversations in schools on racism and hatred of Jews. Le Pen blames far left for stigmatization of Jews. Three boys charged in connection with the attack. Campaign issues of security and immigration highlighted in French parliamentary elections.

Adolescent Boys Charged with Raping 12-Year-Old Jewish Girl in Paris

Two adolescent boys in a Paris suburb have been charged with raping a 12-year-old Jewish girl in a religion-motivated attack. The incident has sparked shock and concern amid a surge in antisemitic acts in France.

Anti-Semitic gang rape of a 12-year-old Jewish girl in France

Three young teenagers in France have been arrested for the anti-semitic-inspired gang rape of a 12-year-old Jewish girl. The boys dragged her into an abandoned building, insulted her for being Jewish, beat her, threatened to burn her, took pictures of her, and gang-raped her. The boys were arrested based on visual descriptions and CCTV footage, and the rape was confirmed by a gynaecological examination. The boys partially admitted to the crime, claiming it was out of revenge for the victim hiding her Jewish identity from one of them.

Stabbing Attack in France

A street-cleaner and a police officer were injured in a stabbing attack by a man armed with a screwdriver in France. The attacker was shot dead by a second officer. The incident occurred during a routine street cleaning in a suburb of Paris.

New Popular Front in France Nominates Radical Antifa Activist for National Assembly

The New Popular Front in France has nominated a radical "anti-fascist" activist, Raphaël Arnault, who is reportedly on the government's national security watchlist, as a candidate for the National Assembly. This decision has sparked controversy due to Arnault's history of Antifa street activism and alleged violence against the far-right.

Prison Convoy Attack and Corrections Officer Stabbing

CCTV footage captures armed gang attacking prison convoy in France to free drug dealer, South Carolina corrections officer stabbed by inmate in head, injuries not life-threatening.

French President Macron Defends Snap Parliamentary Elections

French President Emmanuel Macron defended his decision to call snap parliamentary elections after his party’s defeat in the European parliamentary vote, urging moderate politicians to regroup with his centrist alliance to defeat the far-right. Macron has a presidential mandate until 2027 and hopes voters will choose the 'progressive bloc' over the far-right.

French Snap Election and President Macron's Leadership

President Macron calls for snap election in France to save his leadership, but says he won't resign even if he loses. The right-populist National Rally led by Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella got double the votes of Macron's party in the European elections.

French Politics and Elections

The leader of France's right-wing Les Républicains party, Eric Ciotti, backed an alliance with Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National party for snap parliamentary elections, causing division within his own party. Ciotti faced calls for resignation but refused, stating LR is too weak to oppose Macron's coalition and the left. Macron called for snap polls after the far right's success in the European Parliament elections.

Political Alliance in France

The head of the centre-right Les Républicans party in France has backed an alliance with Marine Le Pen’s National Rally in an upcoming snap election, potentially reshaping the political landscape. This move has sparked divisions within the party and caused controversy.

French Politics

The leader of France’s conservative Republicans is calling for an alliance with the far right National Rally in a snap parliamentary election, causing a major political shift in France. This move is expected to have wide repercussions as mainstream parties struggle to find alliances amidst Macron’s snap election decision.

European Parliament Elections and Political Shifts in Europe

The European Parliament elections saw voters rejecting socialism and left-wing policies in Germany and France. Experts believe the results should put President Biden's administration on notice as voters on both sides of the Atlantic care about similar issues like mass migration and border security.

President Macron's snap parliamentary election in France

President Macron has called a snap parliamentary election in France after a humiliating defeat by the far right. The move is seen as a risky gamble to see if the country will vote differently from the recent European Parliament elections.

European Parliamentary elections and dissolution of French parliament

Right-wing parties made big gains in European Parliamentary elections. President of France dissolved the country's parliament and called elections for the summer. Stunned French voters react.

France's snap elections after far-right gains in EU polls

France's president calls snap elections after the far-right made some big gains in European Union polls

D-Day veteran's wedding in Carentan, France

A 100-year-old D-Day veteran marries a 96-year-old woman in Carentan, France, surrounded by festivities and commemorations. The couple's symbolic wedding was attended by President Biden and President Macron, and the groom expressed his wishes for peace and democracy. The event marked an important anniversary as many veterans are in their 90s or over 100 years old.

International Politics and Health

Benny Gantz resigns from Israel's war cabinet after giving ultimatum to Prime Minister Netanyahu. European Parliament elections shake up France. Clinical trial testing anti-malaria drug for tick-borne disease begins. Narendra Modi sworn in for third term as India's Prime Minister. Mexico struggles with high number of disappearances.

Far-right Parties Gain Momentum in European Union Elections

Far-right parties gain momentum in European Union elections, leading to defeats for mainstream parties in Germany and France.

Jordan Bardella, the New Face of France's Right

Jordan Bardella, a 28-year-old rising star in French politics and president of the National Rally, is reshaping the country's political landscape with his far-right views and strong support. He aims to save France from what he perceives as threats like immigration and loss of identity. Bardella, mentored by Marine Le Pen, is positioning himself as a potential future prime minister or president.

Flame of Liberty and D-Day Anniversary

France lights a flame from Eternal Flame at Arc De Triomphe to show appreciation to its allies during World War II, with the 'Flame of Liberty' making its way to the U.S. for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.

France commemorates 80 years since D-Day

France commemorates 80 years since D-Day with services honoring the heroes who helped liberate Europe.

Russia threatens French troops in Ukraine

Russia threatens to kill French troops in Ukraine, considering them legitimate targets for military action. This comes after French President Macron's calls for NATO to deploy troops to Ukraine to prevent Russian aggression.

Musicians in Kharkiv refuse to cancel music festival, American veterans mark D-Day anniversary in France

Musicians in Kharkiv, Ukraine refuse to cancel music festival despite Russian strikes. American veterans mark D-Day anniversary in France.

Arrest of Dual Ukrainian-Russian Citizen in France for Explosion

A dual Ukrainian-Russian citizen was arrested in France after an explosion at a hotel in Val d'Oise. Authorities are investigating if the incident was a pro-Russian act of sabotage targeting a facility supporting Ukraine's war efforts. The person had materials for making explosive devices, and the incident is part of a larger pattern of pro-Russian sabotage in Europe.

Memory of American Fighter Pilot Shot Down in France

Marie Bastien, a French woman, remembers an American fighter plane being shot down near her village in northern France 80 years ago. She worked hard to keep the memory of the pilot, 1st Lt. Paul Chaufty, alive. Chaufty's great niece, Nicole Saunders, learned more about her great uncle thanks to Bastien's efforts. A plaque honoring Chaufty's memory was unveiled in Saint-Ellier-les-Bois, where he was found.

European Union Membership Sentiment in Germany and France

Survey shows growing pessimism towards the European Union in Germany and France, with more people viewing membership as a disadvantage. Economic concerns and dissatisfaction with globalist policies driving negative sentiment. Calls for focus on economic growth and domestic industry revitalization.

France sending military advisors to Ukraine

Ukraine praises France for sending military advisors and hopes it will encourage other Western partners to deploy troops. Discussions are ongoing regarding the arrival of French instructors and the donation of equipment and ammunition. France's Defense Ministry confirms the project but no concrete timeline has been decided yet.

Protesters plan 'sh*t flashmob' in the Seine river in France

Protesters in France plan a 'sh*t flashmob' in the Seine river to challenge government efforts to clean it up before the Olympics.

State Visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Germany

French President Emmanuel Macron embarks on a state visit to Germany, highlighting the strong ties between the two European Union powers. The visit was postponed last year due to rioting in France. Macron and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier participate in various events during the three-day visit.

Riots in New Caledonia Following Electoral Changes

Riots in New Caledonia following electoral changes; 7 killed, including a man shot by police. French President Emmanuel Macron visited to calm tensions, pausing electoral reform. Australia evacuating citizens stuck in the territory.

Arrest Made in Bordeaux, France for Threats During Olympic Torch Relay

An individual planning violent action during the Olympic torch relay in Bordeaux, France has been arrested. French authorities are implementing strict security measures ahead of the 2024 Olympics, which will be held from July 26 to Aug. 11. The opening ceremonies will take place outside of a stadium setting for the first time.

Discovery of American World War I Hospital in France

This FOX Nation original special discusses the discovery of an American hospital from World War I in France, showcasing artifacts and providing historical insights.

Antisemitic Attack in Rouen, France

French police shot and killed a man armed with a knife and metal bar suspected of setting fire to a synagogue in Rouen amid rising antisemitism in France during the Israel-Hamas war.

Increase in Threats Against Synagogues in the U.S. and Worldwide

Man shot and killed by police in France after setting fire to synagogue in Rouen. No injuries reported. Anti-Semitic acts on the rise.

Unrest in New Caledonia

French police reinforcements have arrived in New Caledonia to regain control of the capital after riots resulting in deaths and arrests. The unrest was sparked by an electoral reform bill. The situation remains tense with road barricades and confrontations.

Attack on a Synagogue in Rouen

French police shot and killed a man armed with a knife and a metal bar suspected of setting fire to a synagogue in Rouen. Tensions rise in France over Israel-Hamas war.

Rise in Anti-LGBTQ Incidents in France

France saw a sharp rise in anti-LGBTQ incidents in 2023, with a 13 percent increase in offences including assaults, threats, and harassment. Activists warn of a worrying trend and express concerns about the government's inaction.

France deploying troops, imposing curfew, and banning TikTok in New Caledonia

France deploys troops, imposes curfew, and bans TikTok in riot-hit New Caledonia.

Deadly Violence in New Caledonia

Deadly violence erupts in New Caledonia as pro-independence indigenous Kanak communities clash with French residents. At least four people have died, prompting a curfew and military mobilization by France.

Protests in New Caledonia over Constitutional Reform

Protests in New Caledonia turn violent over constitutional reform pushed by Paris, leading to deaths, injuries, and arrests. French President Macron considers imposing state of emergency to restore order.

Detention of Ian Thomas Cleary in France for Sexual Assault Case

An American accused of sexually assaulting a college student in 2013 and sending her a Facebook message admitting to the assault has been detained in France after a three-year search.

Manhunt in France for Armed Gang That Killed Prison Officers

A massive manhunt is underway in France for an armed gang that killed two prison officers and injured three others to free an inmate they were escorting. The escaped convict, Mohamed Amra, and the assailants are being pursued by hundreds of officers.

Manhunt in France for Armed Gang that Killed Prison Officers

A manhunt is underway in France for an armed gang that killed two prison officers and injured three others to free an inmate. The escaped convict, Mohamed Amra, has a long criminal record. The attack has shocked France, with prison workers holding moments of silence to honor the fallen officers.

Manhunt in France

Manhunt in France after armed gunman breaks 'drug kingpin' out of police custody

Prison Convoy Ambush in Normandy

French authorities launched a manhunt after gunmen ambushed a prison convoy in Normandy, killing two guards and wounding three others to break out an inmate. The incident was extremely rare for that part of France.

Security Measures in Paris for Olympic Games

Paris will be split into zones this summer for increased security around the Olympic Games, with people needing a special pass to enter certain areas, similar to the Covid pass system. The policy echoes past terror attacks in France.

Prison Convoy Ambush in France

A convicted gangster named Mohamed Amra was snatched from a prison convoy in France by four gunmen, resulting in two officers dead and three injured. The gangster was convicted of burglary and facing charges of kidnapping, leading to death, and attempted homicide by an organized gang. The attack was described as a commando-raid, and the French authorities have activated a special state of emergency to find the perpetrators.

Prison Guard Ambush in France

Two prison guards were shot dead during an ambush in northwestern France, allowing an inmate named Mohamed Amra, known as The Fly, to escape. The guards killed were young fathers. The justice minister stated that Amra was not considered radicalized or a terrorist. The escape took place during a prison transfer to court. Amra was the head of a narcotics network and had tried to escape before. The incident involved gunfire and multiple injuries.

Prison Break and Deadly Attack in Northern France

A manhunt has been launched for armed attackers who shot and killed two prison officers and injured three more while breaking a prisoner out of a van in northern France. The prisoner was convicted of burglary and other serious crimes. President Macron called the attack a shock, and the country is in mourning.

Arrival of Olympic Torch in Marseille, France

The Olympic torch arrived in Marseille, France, aboard a majestic three-mast ship from Greece, leading to fantastic celebrations in the city. President Macron greeted the French Olympic athletes upon their arrival. The torch relay will start in Marseille and move through iconic places in France before heading to Paris. Safety and security have been top priorities, with thousands of police officers and emergency personnel deployed for the event.

French President Macron's State Visit to France

French President Macron will seek to press China's Xi Jinping to influence Russia to end the war in Ukraine during a state visit to France. Discussions will also include trade disputes, climate change, and global challenges. France hopes to convince China to use its leverage with Moscow to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Europe

Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting Europe to strengthen economic ties and lessen American influence, focusing on France, Serbia, and Hungary. The visit aims to test Europe's balancing act between China and the US, with Xi wanting to demonstrate China's growing influence and pursue a pragmatic rapprochement. The visit also coincides with the 25th anniversary of the deadly NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, highlighting historical tensions. The trip reflects the delicate geopolitical dance between China, Europe, and the US.

Denial of Entry to British Palestinian Surgeon to Speak at French Senate Meeting

British Palestinian surgeon, Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta, was denied entry to France to speak at a French Senate meeting about the Israel-Hamas war due to a one-year ban by Germany in all Schengen zone countries.

University Student Protests in Support of Palestinians

Students at universities in Mexico, Australia, and France show support for Palestinians and solidarity with protests at U.S. universities through encampments and occupations.

Security Preparations for the Paris Olympics

The U.S. intelligence and diplomatic community is helping to secure the Olympics in Paris against possible terrorist threats. Various agencies including the NGA, OSAC, FEST, and National Counterterrorism Center are involved in security preparations. France is conducting military drills and increasing security measures in response to potential threats. The opening ceremony is planned to be grand but with backup plans in place if needed.

European Nuclear Protection Against Russia

French President Macron suggests sharing 300 French ballistic missiles across Europe as a nuclear protection against Russia. Concerns arise over potential nuclear threats from Russia and the need for stronger European defense independent of the US.

Pro-Palestinian Activists Blockading Sorbonne University in Paris

Far-left pro-Palestinian student activists in Paris blockade Sorbonne University following similar actions at Sciences Po. Activists demand debates on Gaza conflict and support for Palestinian cause. Political figures and parties have conflicting views on the blockades.

Diplomatic spat between UK and Ireland over illegal migrant returns

The United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland are in a diplomatic spat over illegal migrant returns, with London leveraging the issue against Brussels. Ireland is considering emergency legislation to allow for the return of migrants to the UK. The UK is focused on sending migrants to Rwanda and working with France to stop boat crossings. The situation highlights tensions post-Brexit and France's refusal to cooperate.

France and Germany urge citizens to depart Iran amid increased risk of military escalation in the Middle East

France and Germany urge citizens to depart Iran amid increased risk of military escalation in the Middle East. U.N. Secretary-General condemns Iran's attack on Israel and calls for immediate cessation of hostilities. Pope Francis pleads for halt to actions that could fuel violence in the Middle East.

France's proposed bill on medically assisted suicide

France's government presented a bill to allow adults with terminal illness to take lethal medication, sparking debate on end-of-life options. The bill requires confirmation from medical professionals and has strict eligibility criteria.

Challenges with France's Green Agenda

Former advisor to President Macron warns of potential social revolt in France due to green agenda, citing failures of government and political elites. Populist movements have already caused chaos and protests in the country. Public anger is growing over burdensome regulations and taxation schemes.

NATO Anniversary and French Identity Controversy

NATO, the alliance formed to protect Europe from the Soviet Union, is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a continued focus on Russia. In France, a controversy over a singer chosen for the Olympics' opening ceremony raises questions about French identity.

Allegations of Money Laundering Against Lebanon's Prime Minister

French anti-corruption groups file a complaint against Lebanon's prime minister Najib Mikati for alleged money laundering, questioning the origin of funds transited through the French banking system. Mikati denies the allegations and defends his family's integrity and transparency in business dealings.

Terrorist Plot in France

A 62-year-old Egyptian man with alleged ISIS ties was arrested in France for planning a terrorist attack on the Notre Dame Cathedral. The terror threat level in France has been raised to its highest after an ISIS-claimed attack in Moscow.

Repatriation of Soldiers' Bodies from Dien Bien Phu Battle

France to repatriate bodies of six soldiers who died in Dien Bien Phu battle in Vietnam, marking the end of France's colonial empire in Indochina. Bodies were exhumed and will be studied for identification in France.

French Bill Banning Hair Discrimination

France's lower house of parliament approved a bill that would ban discrimination over the texture, length, color, or style of someone's hair, aiming to support Black people and others facing hostility due to their hair. The bill faces further steps in the Senate. If passed, it would make France the first country to recognize discrimination based on hair at a national level.

Hair Discrimination Bill in France

French lawmakers are debating a bill to ban discrimination based on hair texture, length, color, or style, aiming to support Black people and others facing hostility. The bill would make France the first to recognize hair discrimination at a national level. It faces opposition from conservative and far-right lawmakers who view it as importing U.S. concepts about race. The bill aims to address long-standing struggles of Black French people to embrace their natural hair.

France to deliver weapons to Ukraine to support in fighting Russia's invasion

France to deliver 78 Caesar howitzers and increase supply of shells to Ukraine to support in fighting Russia's invasion. France also participating in efforts to procure artillery shells for Ukraine from countries outside the EU.

France raises terror alert after Moscow concert hall attack

France raises terror alert to highest level after Moscow concert hall attack. Suspects charged with terrorism. Islamic State claims responsibility. U.S. supports conclusion of ISIS involvement. Paris scales back Olympics ceremony due to security concerns.

France Raises Terror Threat Level After ISIS Attack in Moscow

The government of France raised its terror threat warning to the highest level following a suspected ISIS attack in Moscow that left at least 137 dead. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, leading to heightened security measures in France.

Paris Waiter Race Resumes After 13-Year Hiatus

After a 13-year hiatus, the traditional race by cafe waiters through the streets of Paris, France, has resumed in this Olympic year.

Terror Alert in France

French government raises terror alert warning to highest level following shootings in Moscow, in light of Islamic State's claim of responsibility and threats against the country. Security measures increased ahead of Olympic Games in Paris.

Ukrainian government considering ending 'International Sponsors of War' blacklist

The Ukrainian government is considering ending its 'International Sponsors of War' blacklist, which publicly shames major companies funding the Russian invasion by doing business in Russia. China and France are pressuring Ukraine to remove their corporations from the list. The blacklist has no legal force in Ukraine.

Global Nuclear Energy Summit

Leaders from around the world discuss the use of nuclear energy to achieve a climate-neutral globe amid concerns about Iran's growing nuclear developments. France leads in nuclear energy, emphasizing the need to transition from coal and gas to nuclear power and renewables.

Potential NATO Troop Deployment in Ukraine

Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani warns that sending NATO troops into Ukraine could trigger a Third World War. He accuses French President Emmanuel Macron of exploiting the war for personal political gain. Italy is clear that it supports Ukraine but will not directly intervene militarily.

French National Rally's Lead Over Macron in European Parliament Elections

The right-wing populist National Rally of Marine Le Pen is leading by 13 points over French President Emmanuel Macron in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Macron's coalition is struggling due to civil unrest and the National Rally is gaining support among working and middle-class voters.

Legalization of Aid in Dying in France

French President Macron announces new legislation to legalize 'aid in dying' for adults facing end-of-life illnesses, following majority support from citizens. The bill specifies criteria for eligibility and process for obtaining lethal medication.

France Guarantees Right to Abortion in Constitution on International Women’s Day

France inscribed the guaranteed right to abortion in its constitution on International Women’s Day, becoming the first country to do so. The move was seen as a victory for women’s rights globally, but critics questioned its necessity in a country where women face other challenges like domestic violence and unequal pay.

France prepares to mark 80th anniversary of Normandy landings

French President Macron calls for collection of WWII memories as France prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of Normandy landings. Veterans to be honored at Omaha Beach ceremony. Macron emphasizes importance of linking past sacrifices for freedom to today’s youth.

Abortion Rights in France

France's parliament approved an amendment to the constitution guaranteeing abortion rights at the Palace of Versailles.

France Constitutional Amendment on Abortion Rights

France amends its constitution to enshrine a woman's right to abortion following the U.S. reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022. The move is celebrated by women's rights activists and widely supported by the French public.

France Protects Right to Abortion in Constitution

France becomes the first country to protect the right to abortion in its constitution after a historic vote in a joint session of parliament at the Palace of Versailles.

French Lawmakers Approve Bill Enshrining Woman's Right to Abortion in Constitution

French lawmakers approved a bill enshrining a woman's right to abortion in the French Constitution after a historic joint session of parliament, with overwhelming support and celebration across the country.

Abortion Rights in France

French lawmakers are set to vote on a bill to enshrine a woman's right to abortion in the constitution, following a rollback of abortion rights in the United States. The bill aims to make a woman's right to abortion irreversible and must be approved by a three-fifths majority in a joint session of parliament.

Current Events

Vice President Kamala Harris calls for immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, Nikki Haley wins D.C.'s Republican primary, France to enshrine abortion rights in its constitution, Hirbawi keffiyeh factory sees increase in sales during Israel-Hamas war, NPR College Podcast challenge finalists announced.

Enshrining Abortion Rights in the French Constitution

France is set to enshrine the right to an abortion in its constitution, with President Macron leading the push following concerns over abortion rights in the U.S. The move has wide support in France and is expected to pass in a historic joint session of parliament at the Palace of Versailles.

Antisemitic Attack in Paris

French authorities are searching for an assailant who attacked a man leaving a synagogue in Paris. The attack was reportedly antisemitic, with the victim being physically and verbally assaulted by the assailant.

Calls for Cease-Fire in Gaza

China, UK, and France call for immediate cease-fire in Gaza following civilian deaths. George Galloway wins UK Parliament seat after pro-Palestinian campaign. French President Macron condemns deadly aid convoy incident in Gaza.

Enshrining Woman's Right to Abortion in France

France's Senate adopted a bill enshrining a woman's right to abortion in the constitution, following a rollback in abortion rights in the United States. The bill is expected to be approved in a joint session of parliament next week.

France bans use of carnivore terms on vegetarian products

France has banned the use of terms like 'steak' on plant-based products, with fines for violations. Terms like 'escalope', 'ham', 'filet', and 'prime rib' can no longer be used. Some exceptions exist for products with a small amount of plant-based content. The ruling is in response to complaints from the meat industry.

Deportation of Radical Imam in France under New Immigration Law

France used a new immigration law to deport a radical Imam in just 12 hours, sparking controversy and a legal battle as the Imam insists he is a victim of misunderstanding and vows to return to France.