French MEP Rima Hassan mounts political defense at trial for 'glorifying terrorism'
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- French-Palestinian European Parliament member Rima Hassan appeared before a Paris court over an X post quoting former Japanese Red Army member Kōzō Okamoto.
- Prosecutors requested a 10-month suspended prison sentence and a two-year ban on running for office, with a verdict scheduled for November 30, 2026.
French-Palestinian European Parliament member Rima Hassan appeared before a court in Paris on charges of “glorifying terrorism” over a post published on X in March 2026 that quoted Kōzō Okamoto, a former member of the Japanese Red Army who participated in the 1972 Lod Airport attack.
The case centers on the post, which prosecutors argue glorified a terrorist act. Hassan has defended her position, maintaining that her remarks on resistance are grounded in international law.
Prosecutors requested a 10-month suspended prison sentence and a two-year ban on running for elected office. The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on November 30, 2026.
Hassan attended the hearing wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh draped over her shoulders, underscoring the Palestinian cause's continued presence in her public advocacy.
Hassan has become known for defending Palestinian rights, condemning ‘Israel’s’ military campaign in Gaza, and calling for accountability over violations against Palestinians.
She also took part in the Global Sumud Flotilla, an initiative aimed at challenging the blockade of Gaza by delivering humanitarian aid. During the mission, ‘Israeli’ forces intercepted the flotilla and detained Hassan and other participants before deporting them.
The court proceedings come amid broader tensions in France over political speech concerning Palestine, resistance movements, and the legal boundaries of statements about acts classified as terrorism.
