Rima Hassan denounces 'political and judicial harassment' over Israel criticism

Rima Hassan denounces 'political and judicial harassment' over Israel criticism Submitted by Pauline Ertel on Thu, 07/02/2026 - 12:36 Ahead of her trial for 'terrorism apology', Rima Hassan tells MEE of the sweeping surveillance measures and pressure she says are used to silence her solidarity with Palestine MEP Rima Hassan during a press conference with her lawyer following a hearing at the regional headquarters of the judiciary police in Paris, France, on 3 April 2026 (Blanca Cruz/AFP) Off Since her election in 2024, Rima Hassan has become the "enemy within" in the eyes of the French political establishment, facing a barrage of judicial, media and political pressure as an outspoken advocate of the Palestinian cause. The French-Palestinian member of the European Parliament will be tried on Tuesday for "apology for terrorism", a French legal infraction which criminalises forms of expression said to support acts of terrorism or paint them in a positive light. Speaking to Middle East Eye on the eve of her trial, the MEP says this is all part of a concerted campaign against her for speaking up for Palestine.