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Rabat – French footballer of Algerian origin Karim Benzema has filed a defamation lawsuit against France’s Minister of the Interior Gérald Darmanin over claims linking the player to the Muslim Brotherhood.
The legal action comes in response to Darmanin’s accusations that Benzema had “notorious” ties to the Islamist group after the player expressed support for Gaza in the first weeks of Israel’s brutal, murderous campaign in the Palestinian enclave.
The incident dates back to October last year when Benzema posted a message on social media, saying: “All our prayers for the inhabitants of Gaza who are once again victims of these unjust bombings that do not spare women and children.”
Darmanin then alleged that Benzema’s stance was influenced by connections with the Muslim Brotherhood, an Islamist organization deemed “terrorist” in Egypt.
The former French national team player and the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner strongly denied any association with the organization and revealed plans to sue the French minister.
According to France 24, Benzema’s lawsuit argued that Darmanin’s statements have damaged his reputation, seeking redress through the Court of Justice of the Republic, the jurisdiction responsible for prosecuting government officials for offenses committed during their duties.
“I have never had any connection with the Muslim Brotherhood, nor do I know anyone who claims affiliation with them,” Benzema stressed in his complaint. The Al-Ittihad player expressed concern about being exploited for political purposes, particularly in the wake of the war in Gaza.
Speaking to AFP in October, Darmanin’s camp cited a “gradual shift” in Benzema’s public positions toward a more rigid and conservative form of Islam, arguing that this was characteristic of the Muslim Brotherhood’s ideology.
They also pointed to Benzema’s refusal to sing the national anthem while playing for France and what they labeled as “proselytism on social media.”
According to France 24, the legal process will involve a commission that screens complaints before potentially advancing them to an investigation phase. The commission will decide whether to dismiss the case or proceed to trial.
Benzema is not the only player who has faced criticism and harassment for expressing support for Palestinians.
