A recent ruling by France’s National court of Asylum (CNDA) has ignited a firestorm of controversy, declaring all 2 million Palestinians in Gaza eligible for asylum in France. Posted on X by Dr. Maalouf on July 14, 2025, the announcement, accompanied by a historical image of a Palestinian march, has prompted widespread discussion about the implications for French society and its relations with the Arab world. The decision, rooted in claims of persecution due to Israeli military actions, has been met with both alarm and criticism.

The CNDA’s landmark decision extends asylum eligibility to all Gazan residents, classifying Palestinians as a persecuted group based on their "nationality" and the ongoing conflict with Israel. This move comes despite France’s lack of formal recognition of palestine as a state. The accompanying black-and-white photograph, depicting a group of Palestinians marching with flags and headscarves, serves as a visual reminder of the region’s tumultuous history and the refugee crisis that has persisted since the mid-20th century. Dr. Maalouf’s post highlights the ruling’s potential consequences, questioning the wisdom of such a policy in light of historical precedents.
This ruling raises questions about Europe’s immigration policies and the balance between humanitarian obligations and national security. The historical image of a unified Palestinian march contrasts sharply with the fragmented reception they have received globally, underscoring a complex narrative of displacement and resistance. Critics argue that the decision could strain France’s social fabric, potentially leading to the kind of sectarian violence seen in other regions. Supporters, though less vocal in the thread, might frame it as a moral stance against persecution, though security concerns overshadow this perspective.

France’s decision to grant asylum eligibility to all Gazans is a bold and divisive move that has reopened old wounds and sparked new fears. As Dr. Maalouf’s post and the ensuing discussion suggest, the policy could reshape the nation’s demographic and cultural landscape, drawing parallels to the turbulent experiences of other host countries.


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