Gabriel Attal, until recently France’s Prime Minister and now seen as the likely successor to President Macron, visited the Jewish orphanage in Odessa. Attal’s appearance at the Jewish orphanage comes against the backdrop of his strong pro-Israel statements and his criticism of President Macron.

Gabriel Attal, until recently France’s Jewish Prime Minister and now seen as the likely successor to President Macron, visited the Jewish orphanage in Odessa and was visibly moved. “I leave strengthened by their faith, by the incredible strength they show for their future. This is a life lesson,” he said.

At a time when France is ablaze with massive protests against President Macron over his economic policies, former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal – the young Jewish leader who made history by holding the position – chose to visit the Jewish orphanage Mishpachat Ukraina.

Attal, who currently serves as Chairman of the France–Ukraine Friendship Group, was joined by French parliamentarians Pierre-Alexandre Anglade, Tristan Lahaye (Chairman of the European Union Affairs Committee), Thierry Sauter, and Liliana Tanguy.

Attal’s appearance at the Jewish orphanage comes against the backdrop of his strong pro-Israel statements and his criticism of President Macron’s decision to prevent Israeli companies from participating in French arms exhibitions, as well as the arms embargo. “A Palestinian state is not relevant right now,” he recently declared, sparking controversy.

Attal, who was the youngest Prime Minister in the history of the French Republic, expressed deep emotion upon meeting the 124 children who live, study, and grow under the devoted leadership of Rabbi Avraham Wolff and his wife, despite the challenges of war.

“I have heard so much about this Jewish orphanage,” Attal said. “Many people told me: ‘If you visit Ukraine, you must come here.’ I thank Hashem that I was privileged to be here today. I thought I was coming to strengthen the children, but instead I leave strengthened by their faith, by the incredible strength they show for their future. This is a life lesson.”

During the visit, the delegation was impressed by the extraordinary conditions provided for the children, even in such a challenging time. The parliamentarians emphasized the importance of supporting the Jewish community and highlighted the unique contribution of Mishpachat Ukraina as a warm and loving home.

Rebbetzin Chaya Wolff, the orphanage director, thanked the delegation for their visit, saying their presence provided tremendous encouragement to the children and staff. “The knowledge that there are people thinking about us and supporting us even beyond Ukraine’s borders,” she said, “gives the children incredible strength to keep moving forward.”

The French delegation promised to continue strengthening ties with the local Jewish community and to serve as loyal ambassadors of compassion, support, and friendship between nations.