French far-right leader says claims of antisemitism part of ‘total war’ on Le Pen campaign

Jordan Bardella, president of France's far-right National Rally party, has accused political opponents of waging a "total war" against Marine Le Pen's presidential campaign following recent allegations of antisemitism. The controversy stems from a published report concerning remarks Bardella allegedly made as a young activist in 2013 that were disparaging toward Jewish people.

In response to the accusations, Bardella has denied the claims and announced plans to sue for libel. Meanwhile, Le Pen has vowed that the party will "counterattack" ahead of the upcoming 2027 presidential vote.