French Jewish groups said they feel betrayed by their country’s vote in favor of extending UNESCO membership to the Palestinians.
“President [Nicolas] Sarkozy broke his word and betrayed the ties of friendship that link France and Israel,” said the UPJF, a Jewish group of business professionals and CEOs, in a statement issued shortly after the Oct. 31 vote.
French officials told reporters that the decision to admit Palestine into UNESCO was a difficult one that was pounded out over the weekend amid stiff tension. — jta