French Imam Calls for Interfaith Unity During Visit to Israel

French Imam Hassen Chalghoumi, leader of the Drancy Mosque and chairman of the Conference of Imams of France, was honored during a special luncheon in Tel Aviv by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). The event took place on July 16, 2025, as part of Chalghoumi’s visit to Israel, where he was recognized for his efforts in promoting interfaith coexistence and combating antisemitism.

CAM CEO Sacha Roytman highlighted the significance of Chalghoumi’s presence in Israel, noting that his visit carries particular weight in a climate where moderates are often silenced and extremists emboldened. Roytman emphasized the importance of standing against religious extremism and antisemitism, while also drawing attention to the plight of the Druze community in Syria, urging solidarity with all minorities facing hate.

CAM Advisory Board Chair Natan Sharansky praised Chalghoumi as a trusted ally of the French Jewish community. He warned that the conflict since October 7th is not merely between Israel and Hamas, but part of a broader global campaign of demonization against the Jewish people, driven by Iran and amplified by social media.

Shannon Seban, CAM Advisor on European Affairs, commended Chalghoumi for his moral courage and principled leadership. She noted that his journey to Israel, alongside fellow European imams, represents a powerful act of reconciliation, demonstrating that dialogue is stronger than division.

In his remarks, Chalghoumi addressed the escalating risks faced by moderate Muslim leaders in Europe. He stated that in France, an Islamist can walk freely, while an imam like himself cannot. He emphasized that the fear is among moderates, not terrorists, and that the targeting of Jews and their supporters has intensified since October 7th. Chalghoumi also noted that every imam who has come to Israel has received threats.

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