Dutch Brand’s Ad Showing Veiled Eiffel Tower Sparks Political Backlash in France

In France, Merrachi caused an outcry after posting a video on its TikTok account showing the Eiffel Tower veiled in an Islamic tunic, accompanied by the following caption: "The French government hates the idea of Merrachi arriving." The Islamic clothing brand did not hesitate to lightly mock the growing restrictions imposed on women wearing Islamic clothing in the country.

This publication has provoked strong reactions from French political actors. On X, Lisette Polett, a member of the National Rally (RN), a far-right party, denounced a "provocative advertisement" and "an ideological and commercial instrumentalization that offends our republican values and our heritage." Post shared by Marine Le Pen, a far-right political figure and former presidential candidate, who is of the same political persuasion as Lisette.

"We must be implacable: ban the stores of this brand and cut off access to their online sales site in France. Make yourself respected," reacted Philippe Murer, co-founder of the Citizen Political Movement. This former left-wing politician who has switched to the far right and economist called on the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, and the government to act accordingly.

Some Internet users have tried to justify their opposition. "If we exchanged our cities, would the Moroccans accept that a cross be placed on the Hassan Tower in Rabat as a promotional message?" declared an Internet user. Another retorted: "The Eiffel Tower is not a place of worship, so you should have saved your breath."