Marine Le Pen advocates for banning the Muslim Brotherhood in France

Marine Le Pen has called upon Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau to take decisive action against the Muslim Brotherhood, suggesting that the organization poses a significant threat to French society. Her remarks come in light of Retailleau's recent comments on CNews, where he outlined the dangers associated with the group.

Le Pen, the leader of the National Rally (RN) parliamentary group, utilized social media to express her concerns, stating, "He has detailed information on the dangers of the Muslim Brotherhood. We have warned about this for years. What is he waiting for to ban this totalitarian movement, which spreads its influence everywhere, even within the Paris Mosque, a symbol of gratitude to Muslim soldiers who fought for France in World War I?"

During his interview, Retailleau addressed various pressing issues, including a recent attack on a rabbi in Orleans, the ongoing debate regarding the wearing of veils in sports, and what he termed “anti-white racism.” He reiterated his stance on prohibiting veils in sports, labeling them as incompatible with the principles of the Republic, alongside other comments perceived as Islamophobic.

Retailleau's assertions extend to a larger critique of Islam’s role in France, as he remarked, "For me, the veil is not a sign of liberty but a symbol of submission and apartheid in our society." He argued that allowing religious symbols in competitive environments undermines the neutrality of public spaces and poses a threat to gender equality and secularism.

In his remarks, Retailleau also took aim at the left-wing party La France Insoumise (LFI), claiming that it endangers the Republic by failing to confront what he sees as radical ideologies. He linked rising antisemitism in France to Islamist movements, asserting that "antisemitic hatred is spread by Islamism," and cautioned that such ideologies exploit societal grievances to foster division.

The minister's comments drew parallels between contemporary Islamism and historical fascism, stating, "Islamism now behaves as fascism once did." This rhetoric underscores the scrutiny Islam faces in France, where rising concerns over radicalism often lead to a perception of the faith through a lens of suspicion.

As a result, the practices of Islam are increasingly viewed with skepticism, contributing to an environment where Muslims encounter heightened levels of Islamophobia and violence.