France’s debate over the Islamic headscarf has returned ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The National Rally has revived its long-standing proposal to restrict or ban the hijab in public spaces. Marine Le Pen has said she would pursue the measure progressively and ultimately seek public approval through a referendum. The proposal remains politically and legally contested, and even figures within the RN have differed over its scope and implementation. The current legal situation is more limited: France generally prohibits clothing that conceals the face in public, while an ordinary headscarf remains permitted when the face is identifiable. Public employees, however, must observe religious neutrality while performing their duties. The debate intensified after RN lawmaker Julien Odoul shared an AI-altered image of a Muslim woman in which her hijab and clothing had been digitally changed. He posted the manipulated version with the caption “French freedom,” prompting public criticism. Meanwhile, women on social media began posting photos and videos wearing headscarves in solidarity with Muslim women and in opposition to the proposed ban. Supporters of the proposed restrictions frame them around secularism, opposition to what they describe as Islamist ideology, and women’s emancipation. Critics argue that extending a ban to ordinary public spaces would restrict individual religious freedom and women’s ability to choose their own clothing. The larger question is: Where should France draw the line between secularism, religious freedom, and individual choice?