Since the beginning of Israeli-Palestinian conflictdebates are multiplying, both in political spheres and in civil society. In France, numerous student demonstrations have emerged, notably at Sciences Po, in support of Gaza. These mobilizations, often organized by radical left groups, were not to everyone's taste. Among the critical voices, that of Élie Semoun stood out for his direct and unambiguous tone.
Élie Semoun frankly on his position
On April 29, on his social networks, the 61-year-old comedian shared his exasperation with these initiatives, declaring:
“Bands of uneducated morons who promote Hamas which refuses the ceasefire, who steal money intended for the Palestinians, who hold them hostage, etc.. When they are in France, we will send them to receive them.”he confided.
These remarks caused a media storm, accompanied bya wave of insults online, with some calling him a “dirty Zionist.” Faced with this surge of hatred, Élie Semoun decided to file a complaint, as he revealed a few days later in an interview given to The Parisian.
“I am angry and powerless in the face of this anti-Semitic wave”
In this interview, Élie Semoun was keen to explain his approach, while recognizing that his words may have lacked precision: “I called Sciences Po students uneducated morons. Those were probably the wrong words.. But I am so angry and helpless in the face of this anti-Semitic wave, in the face of all this ignorance.”he explained.
The artist, known for his humor, says he is particularly affected by the rise in tensions around this issue. Himself Jewish, the latter is worried about the future of his community, while anti-Semitic acts have increased by 300% between 2023 and 2024. “I'm not afraid, but I'm worried. I am certain that times are going to be hard for the Jews. Israel is demonized… The Hamas terrorists have succeeded: Israel has lost the battle of public opinion.” A position which has earned him as much support as criticism, but which he fully accepts.
An artist in full introspection
Beyond political questions, Élie Semoun also spoke about his relationship to the profession of artist, in an interview published on November 3 in The Sunday Journal. The actor, soon to star in the film We should have gone to Greece with Gérard Jugnotadmitted that his vision of the scene had evolved over time: “Before, when I went on stage, I was a lot more carefree. Today, I ask myself a lot more questions and, sometimes, I censor myself.”declared the one who has an unusual passion. This introspection reflects a form of maturity and caution in his approach to humor, especially in such a polarized context.
Élie Semoun, a voice that divides
With Arthur, Élie Semoun is one of the rare showbiz figures to speak publicly in favor of Israel. This position earned him numerous threats, but also a split among his fans. Some salute his courage, while others criticize him for his incisive tone. Despite this, Élie Semoun remains faithful to his convictions. Angry at the ignorance and hatred he observes, Antoine Semoun's father continues to make his voice heard, even if it means causing controversy. For the comedian, it is not simply a question of defending a cause, but to take a stand in the face of what he considers to be an injustice.
While waiting for the release of his next film, Élie Semoun is not letting his guard down. His determination to express himself, even in
a hostile contextshows to what extent he is ready to embrace his ideas, without compromise.
Related News :