Rep. Keith Self, a key House Republican focused on Europe policy, attributes the recent unrest in French cities to widespread migration. He warns that similar circumstances might emerge in the U.S. soon. Self expressed these views to Fox News Digital, noting that the violent protests in France were expected.
“This has been building for years,” Self stated. “They are dealing with the consequences of their long-term migration policies, and we are attempting to manage our own similar challenges. France and the U.K. offer a view into potential future issues for America.”
Self chairs the Subcommittee on Europe under the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founded the Sharia-Free America Caucus with Rep. Chip Roy. The group faces criticism for perceived Islamophobic tendencies, condemned by organizations like the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations. Despite this, Self maintains his stance, noting France’s Muslim population as a factor in the disturbances.
“Muslims constitute about 7% of France’s population, heavily concentrated in urban areas, creating a tipping point,” he argued.
Islam ranks as the second most practiced religion in France for individuals between 18 and 59 years old, after Catholicism, according to official statistics.
The ongoing riots in France have involved stores being looted and historic structures being damaged. The French government, which prides itself on secular centrism, blames far-left elements for intensifying issues like high living expenses and costly education.
Self described the situation as an escalating “civil war,” suggesting a military intervention might be necessary, though unlikely. He reasoned, “The destruction is too extensive now. If they do not act, French culture in major cities could be at risk.”
Regarding the possibility of President Emmanuel Macron stepping down, Self commented, “Macron’s decision. A change could potentially benefit France.” Self emphasized that disturbances should not hinder the U.S.-France relationship, advocating for U.S. assistance, particularly in intelligence.
“We should provide help like facial recognition support, though not direct involvement,” Self explained. “France remains a significant ally, and we should assist them whenever possible.”
Recently, more than 500,000 people demonstrated across France. Authorities apprehended 1,800 people nationwide, with over 800 in Paris alone. Images of protesters carrying multiple flags have led conservative figures to criticize France’s immigration approach.
The Louvre Museum has temporarily closed due to the unrest. Elizabeth Elkind, politics reporter with Fox News Digital, covers the House of Representatives, previously contributing to Daily Mail and CBS News.
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