Overview

• 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.