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Joint Statement on Israel's Basketball Victory Over France
"We, the undersigned, wish to make clear our position on the events of last night's EuroBasket game between Israel and France.
"Israel, of course, has the right to play basketball. Every nation deserves the chance to compete on the international stage, to dribble, to pass, and even—within reason—to shoot three-pointers.
"But in this case, Israel has gone too far. An 82–69 victory cannot be justified. It was disproportionate, excessive, and leaves France deeply wounded. We call for immediate restraint in future games, and a renewed commitment to a two-team solution on the court—where both sides feel they have scored enough points to claim dignity.
"We urge international referees to ensure that Israel's basketball actions remain proportionate, measured, and in line with the rules-based sporting order. Until then, we cannot stay silent."
Emmanuel Macron, President of France
Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
[ADDED: Should really have included Australia's Anthony Albanese in that Coalition of the Whining]
