French source: Visas for El Al security staff suspended due to ‘difficulties’ for French diplomats at airport screenings

A French diplomatic source confirms that France has “temporarily suspended” the renewal of work visas for El Al security staff members, following reports on the matter.

The move, which prevents staff members from working legally in the country, aims to address “difficulties” faced by French diplomatic personnel during routine security screenings by El Al staff members at the Charles de Gaulle International Airport, according to the source.

“For many months, members of France’s diplomatic corps in Israel and in Jerusalem have been subjected to systematic screening by El Al security personnel at Charles de Gaulle Airport prior to the airline’s flights,” the source says in a statement.

“Talks have been opened with the Israeli embassy in France to resolve these difficulties; in the meantime, several administrative measures related to this arrangement have been temporarily suspended,” the source continues, before clarifying that this includes the temporary suspension of visas.

“Discussions are ongoing in an effort to quickly reach a solution that meets the needs of both sides,” the source adds.

Some reports suggested that the move is related to rising tensions between Paris and Jerusalem over Israel’s military conduct in Gaza, though the source did not note a connection, saying the development began “some time ago.”

The Foreign Ministry says it is investigating the issue.