Karim Benzema, the former Real Madrid star and 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, has initiated legal action for defamation against Gerald Darmanin, the French Interior Minister.
This move follows Darmanin’s comments last year in which he accused Benzema of having “notorious” connections with the Muslim Brotherhood.
The conflict traces back to a post by Benzema on X (previously known as Twitter) in mid-October, where he expressed solidarity with the residents of Gaza, referencing what he described as “unjust bombardments” by Israel following a violent attack by Hamas on October 7.
Responding to Benzema’s post, Darmanin, known for his firm right-wing stance and presidential aspirations, alleged that Benzema had significant ties with the Muslim Brotherhood, an Islamist group founded in Egypt.
In his defamation suit, represented by attorney Hugues Vigier and as reported by AFP, Benzema asserts that such statements by Darmanin tarnish his reputation and honor.
Benzema, currently playing for the Saudi club Al-Ittihad and a practicing Muslim, firmly denies any association with the Muslim Brotherhood or its purported members.
Benzema’s complaint also highlights the political exploitation he feels he’s subjected to due to his fame, particularly in the context of the tense situation following the events of October 7.
Additionally, Darmanin had criticized Benzema’s lack of public support for the Israelis affected in the Hamas attack and a French teacher murdered by an Islamist ex-student. Darmanin had urged Benzema to express his support for the slain teacher, noting his silence on the matter.
The minister also mentioned Benzema’s past refusal to sing the French national anthem and his religious advocacy on social media.
The legal action by Benzema has been filed with the Cour de justice, the only judicial body in France authorized to handle cases against government officials for conduct related to their official duties.
