Palestinian Activist Ramy Shaath Faces Deportation from France

Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath is facing deportation from France after authorities designated his presence a serious threat to public order. The Nanterre prefecture cited his co-founding of the organization Urgence Palestine and his links to other pro-Palestinian figures as primary grounds for the proceedings. Additionally, officials pointed to controversial remarks Shaath made during public demonstrations, including a November 2023 protest in Paris where he criticized Israeli military actions in Gaza. Although an investigation into alleged defense of terrorism regarding these comments was closed in October 2024, the administrative deportation process continues. Shaath, a former political prisoner in Egypt who was released in 2022 with the support of French President Emmanuel Macron, argues that the state is attempting to silence his advocacy for a ceasefire and sanctions against Israel. He is scheduled to appear before a deportation committee on May 21, after which an enforceable order could be issued. His lawyer noted that deportation to Egypt is impossible as Shaath no longer holds Egyptian nationality, and return to Palestine is unfeasible due to the ongoing war.