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Valencia, Spain – July 31, 2025
A diplomatic dispute has erupted between France and Spain following the removal of approximately 40 French Jewish teenagers from a Vueling Airlines flight at Valencia Airport on July 23. The incident has sparked allegations of antisemitism, which have been firmly denied by both the airline and Spanish authorities.
Controversial Remarks and Government Response
Tensions escalated after Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente posted—and later deleted—a message on social media platform X, accusing conservative politicians of “supporting the Israeli brats” instead of backing the airline. The French government condemned the remarks, with European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad and Discrimination Minister Aurore Bergé denouncing the minister’s language and the treatment of the group.
French officials also criticized the conduct of Spanish law enforcement, citing video footage showing a female chaperone being forcibly restrained and handcuffed by police.
Conflicting Accounts of Onboard Conduct
Vueling Airlines stated that the group had engaged in behavior that compromised flight safety, including tampering with oxygen masks and life jackets, and ignoring crew instructions. The airline said the decision to involve law enforcement was made to ensure passenger safety.
However, the summer camp organizer disputes this account, claiming the teens were removed without justification. Witnesses and parents allege the group was targeted after singing in Hebrew, and assert that the situation was escalated unnecessarily.
Legal Action and Broader Implications
A formal complaint is expected to be filed against Vueling, citing physical and psychological harm and religious discrimination. The incident has reignited concerns over rising antisemitism in Europe and prompted calls for accountability and transparency in airline and law enforcement practices.
Vueling Airlines by Nabil Molinari