Israel deports French journalist accused of supporting Hamas

Israeli authorities have deported a French journalist who had often criticized Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. A spokesperson for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that France was supporting Alice Froussard but that Israel had the legal right to deport her. No official reason was given for the deportation, but Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli wrote on social media that he was glad "Alice Froussard, a French journalist who supports Hamas, and who claims that the October 7 massacre must be viewed 'in context', is making her way from Ben Gurion Airport back to Paris". The case highlights Israel’s longstanding efforts to suppress international coverage of its siege on Gaza and invasion of Lebanon. Since the assault began nearly three years ago, no foreign reporter has been allowed to enter the enclave. The Foreign Press Association condemned Froussard’s treatment, stating that Israel had already authorized her travel prior to arrival. Israel has faced repeated criticism for restricting media coverage, and is accused of killing hundreds of local journalists in an attempt to silence reports.