U.S. Lawmaker Warns of Lessons from French Riots

Rep. Keith Self, a leading House Republican focused on European policy, attributes the unrest in French cities to mass migration, cautioning that the U.S. could face similar issues. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Self remarked on the ongoing violent protests in France, suggesting they were inevitable.

Self stated, “Years of permissive attitudes have led to the current turmoil. France is facing the consequences of neglecting mass migration issues, and we need to learn from their example.” He emphasized the importance of addressing the U.S.’s own migration challenges to avoid similar outcomes.

As chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe within the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and co-founder of the Sharia-Free America Caucus alongside Rep. Chip Roy, Self is vocal about what he perceives as cultural conflicts stemming from migration. The caucus has been criticized as Islamophobic by some Democrats and organizations such as the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations.

He argued that France’s growing Muslim population, now at 7%, is a factor in the unrest. He pointed out that this percentage of population concentration in urban areas can create what he termed a ‘tipping point.’

French demographics show Islam as the second-most followed religion among people aged 18 to 59, trailing Catholicism, according to data from France’s National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies.

Self commented on cultural differences stating, “When perceptions of cultural and moral equivalency fail, decisions must be made regarding the preservation of Christian heritage, especially pertinent for France.”

Weeks of riots across France have resulted in looted stores and historic sites damaged by fires. The secular centrist government of France blames far-left groups for heightening tensions over costly living conditions and education.

Self described the situation in France as resembling “civil war” and suggested military intervention might be necessary, although he expressed doubt about its likelihood.

“Destruction is widespread. It remains uncertain if France will deploy military forces, but failing to act jeopardizes their cultural heritage, particularly in major cities,” Self noted.

Regarding the political implications for French President Emmanuel Macron, Self commented, “Macron’s continuance in office is his decision. It might actually benefit France for him to reconsider.”

Despite the ongoing chaos, Self advocates maintaining the U.S.-France relationship and suggested offering support with intelligence resources, including facial recognition technology. “France remains a significant ally and partner. We should offer the help we can, without physical intervention,” he said.

Over the weekend, 500,000 protesters flooded the streets of various French cities. Authorities reported 1,800 national arrests, with 800 in Paris alone. Protesters carrying Algerian, Palestinian, and Moroccan flags have prompted criticism from the political right concerning France’s immigration policies.

The Louvre museum in Paris announced its closure “for the time being” due to the unrest.

Elizabeth Elkind covers politics for Fox News Digital, primarily focusing on the House of Representatives. Her work has appeared in Daily Mail and CBS News. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to [email protected].