Former Real Madrid superstar and French striker Karim Benzema has taken legal action by filing a defamation case against French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. The minister had publicly accused Benzema of having connections with the Muslim Brotherhood without providing any evidence to support his claim. In response, Benzema’s legal team asserted that Darmanin’s statements were aimed at political gain through rhetorical speeches, prompting the defamation suit.
The legal dispute arose after Benzema expressed solidarity with the people in Gaza on social media, condemning unjust bombardments that affected women and children. Subsequently, Darmanin targeted the French striker during an interview with a conservative French broadcaster, making unsupported claims about Benzema’s alleged association with the Muslim Brotherhood.
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The French interior minister failed to provide any concrete proof for his statements on national television, leading to criticism of his unsubstantiated allegations against Benzema. Muslim Brotherhood is an Islamist movement banned in several Middle Eastern countries, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
In an attempt to defend his statements, Darmanin pointed out that Benzema had not condemned the attack by Hamas on Israel and had not commented on the actions of an Islamist student who fatally stabbed his teacher. Benzema’s legal team responded to these attempts at justification by filing a comprehensive 92-page complaint on his behalf.
The complaint emphasizes that Darmanin’s statements have the potential to damage Benzema’s reputation as a prominent French figure who has represented the country on the global stage. In the legal filing, Benzema expressed awareness of being exploited for political games and condemned the inappropriate nature of such statements, particularly in light of significant events since October 7.
Hugues Vigier, the lawyer representing Benzema in the defamation case, criticized Darmanin’s conduct, stating that it contradicts the principles expected of a politician. Currently playing for Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, Benzema remains a highly regarded football figure, winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in 2022.
