A Jewish business owner in Paris told a French news channel this week that Jews should leave the country immediately, speaking out after last weekend's riots left him feeling unsafe in his own neighbourhood.
The shopkeeper, who owns a business on Boulevard Magenta in Paris, was interviewed by the right-wing channel CNEWS as part of its coverage of how residents and business owners are coping after the violence. He said his shop was spared damage "by a miracle".
"I am Jewish, and I don't think Jews should stay in this country," he said on air. Asked directly whether he believes the Jewish community should leave France, he answered without hesitation: "In my opinion, yes, as fast as possible."
He pointed to France's political map as the source of the problem, singling out "mainly the far left". When the interviewer asked whether these forces are driving increased suspicion and attacks on Jews, he confirmed: "Yes, 100 per cent, they need the Arab voting bloc."
The sense of personal safety in his area has vanished entirely, he said, adding bluntly: "I don't feel safe here at all."
