Jordan Bardella Faces Antisemitism Allegations Amid Senate Gains

• •Jordan Bardella is accused of making antisemitic remarks in private messages.
• •The National Rally gained at least 14 seats in the recent French Senate elections.
• •Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli publicly defended Bardella amid the controversy.

Jordan Bardella, president of France's far-right National Rally, is facing renewed allegations of antisemitism following his party's significant gains in the recent Senate elections. Accusations include past statements he reportedly made, such as claiming 'all banks are controlled by Jews.' Despite these allegations, Bardella has received support from Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli, who defended him during a visit in 2025. The National Rally, which has sought to distance itself from its antisemitic roots, gained at least 14 seats in the Senate, allowing it to form a parliamentary group for the first time. The party's strategy has involved shifting focus to anti-Muslim sentiments while attempting to position itself as a defender of Jewish interests. This controversy highlights ongoing tensions regarding antisemitism and political narratives in France, especially in the context of the 2027 elections.