Jerusalem (LM) Israel’s government has cancelled visas for 27 French left-wing lawmakers and local officials just two days before their planned visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. This decision follows a similar incident where two British members of the Labour Party were denied entry into the country.
The cancellation comes amidst rising diplomatic tensions following French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France would soon recognize a Palestinian state. Macron has recently sought to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the humanitarian conditions in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Israel’s interior ministry justified the visa cancellations under a law that permits authorities to deny entry to individuals deemed to be acting against the state of Israel.
The affected lawmakers, including 17 members from France’s Ecologist and Communist parties, condemned the action as “collective punishment.” They have called on President Macron to intervene on their behalf.
In a joint statement, the group noted, “We had been invited on a five-day trip by the French consulate in Jerusalem to strengthen international cooperation and the culture of peace.” They expressed confusion over the sudden cancellation, stating, “For the first time, two days before our departure, the Israeli authorities cancelled our entry visas that had been approved one month ago.”
The lawmakers emphasized their commitment to understanding the reasons behind this abrupt decision, which they believe undermines diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.
Leadership Magazine
