In an unprecedented move, France's conservative Republicans party chairman, Eric Ciotti, has called for a country-wide alliance between his party's candidates and Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. This surprising announcement marks the first time in modern French political history that a leader of a traditional party has backed an alliance with the far-right.

President Emmanuel Macron's decision to call for snap elections on June 30, with a second round on July 7, comes after the RN scored more than double the number of votes of his centrist alliance in the recent EU elections. It is seen as a major gamble on Macron's part, as he hopes to regain political momentum in the face of rising far-right influence.

Ciotti had discussions with RN party leaders, Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, before making the move. He stated that the goal of this alliance is to ensure that the Republicans (LR) can secure enough seats to form a parliamentary group. "We need some sort of alliance, and that's what I am offering," Ciotti said, claiming that this is in line with the desires of the majority of voters.

Le Pen praised Ciotti's "courageous choice" and "sense of responsibility," expressing hope that many LR figures will follow suit. However, this call for an alliance may create divisions within the Republican party, with more centrist members already expressing their discontent. Olivier Marleix, LR's chief in the lower house of parliament, has refused to support any arrangement with a far-right movement and demanded Ciotti's resignation.

While the National Rally is expected to emerge as the strongest force in the snap elections, they may fall short of an absolute majority. Macron's office has delayed a major news conference, initially scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, until Wednesday. The President seeks to frame the upcoming vote as a choice between "Republican forces on one side and extremist forces on the other."

Despite the challenges he faces, Macron is resolute and has ruled out resigning "whatever the result" of the snap elections. He scoffed at questions regarding the timing of the parliamentary dissolution, stating that his decision was made in the best interest of the country. Macron also expressed readiness to debate head-to-head with Le Pen, showcasing his determination to confront the rising far-right influence.

As the political landscape in France continues to evolve, all eyes will be on the outcome of the forthcoming parliamentary elections, which could have far-reaching implications for the country's future trajectory.