France's ambassador to Israel criticized Israelis on Thursday for what he called "anti-French neurosis", drawing a rebuke from the Jewish state and touching off a new diplomatic row between the two countries. Gerard Araud told Israeli radio that France was often singled out by Israelis for unfair attacks. He accused the Israeli media of exaggerating French anti-Semitism and even complained about a popular comedian poking fun at the French. There was a sort of anti-French neurosis in the country, he said, and Israelis are convinced that the French are anti-Israel. Araud added: "The Israelis are building a case against France." Israel's Foreign Ministry responded by saying Araud's remarks were "unacceptable, deviated from diplomatic decorum and do not contribute to efforts to improve bilateral relations".
