Ex-French Olympic Ambassador Claims She is Being Targeted for Supporting Palestine

Ex-French Olympic Ambassador Claims She is Being Targeted for Supporting Palestine

In a controversial development, former French Olympic Ambassador, Latifa Ibn Ziaten, has publicly claimed that she is being targeted and vilified for her vocal support of Palestine. Ibn Ziaten, who is also an anti-radicalization activist and the mother of a victim of the 2012 Toulouse terrorist attack, has faced increasing backlash in recent weeks, sparking a heated debate on free speech and activism in France.

Latifa Ibn Ziaten is a well-known figure in France, celebrated for her tireless work in promoting peace and combating radicalization following the tragic death of her son, Imad Ibn Ziaten, a French soldier who was killed by a jihadist in Toulouse in 2012. In recognition of her efforts, she was appointed as an Olympic Ambassador for Paris 2024, a role she held until recently.

Ibn Ziaten has long been an advocate for human rights and has recently been vocal about her support for the Palestinian cause. She has participated in several public demonstrations, spoken at events, and used her social media platforms to highlight the plight of Palestinians. Her stance has drawn both praise and criticism, but she now claims that the backlash has escalated to targeted harassment.

“I have always stood for justice and human rights. My support for Palestine comes from a place of empathy and a desire for peace. However, in recent weeks, I have faced severe backlash, including threats and public vilification, for expressing my views,” Ibn Ziaten stated in a recent interview.

According to Ibn Ziaten, the harassment began after she participated in a pro-Palestinian rally in Paris last month. She claims to have received threatening messages online, including death threats, and has been the subject of several defamatory articles in certain media outlets.

“I never expected to be targeted in this manner. My aim has always been to advocate for peace and understanding. It is disheartening to see that supporting a humanitarian cause can lead to such hostility,” she added.

Ibn Ziaten’s claims have ignited a debate in France, a country known for its staunch secularism and stringent anti-radicalization policies. Public opinion is divided, with some expressing solidarity with Ibn Ziaten, while others criticize her for what they perceive as taking a controversial stance on a sensitive geopolitical issue.

French President Emmanuel Macron has not directly addressed Ibn Ziaten’s allegations but reaffirmed the country’s commitment to free speech and human rights. “France stands for freedom of expression and the protection of human rights. We condemn any form of harassment or threats against individuals for their views,” Macron said in a statement.

Several human rights organizations have come forward to support Ibn Ziaten, condemning the threats and calling for an end to the harassment. Amnesty International France issued a statement, saying, “Latifa Ibn Ziaten has been a beacon of peace and reconciliation. It is unacceptable that she faces threats for her advocacy. We stand with her and call for the authorities to ensure her safety.”

The French Olympic Committee has expressed concern over the situation but has not taken a definitive stance. “We are aware of the allegations made by Latifa Ibn Ziaten and are closely monitoring the situation. The values of the Olympic movement include peace and solidarity, and we believe in upholding these principles,” a spokesperson for the committee said.

Latifa Ibn Ziaten remains undeterred and vows to continue her advocacy for human rights and peace. “I will not be silenced. My work is driven by a desire to prevent violence and promote understanding. I will continue to speak out for those who do not have a voice,” she declared.

Latifa Ibn Ziaten is a French-Moroccan activist known for her work against radicalization and in support of youth education. Following the tragic loss of her son, she founded the Imad Association for Youth and Peace, which works to prevent radicalization and promote social cohesion. Her efforts have been recognized internationally, earning her numerous accolades and respect.

Amnesty International France is a non-governmental organization focused on human rights advocacy. It is part of the global Amnesty International movement, which works to protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth, and dignity are denied.