In a significant move, Israel’s government cancelled the visas of 27 French lawmakers just days before their scheduled visit to Jerusalem and Palestinian territories. The decision comes amid growing diplomatic tensions following French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France would soon recognize Palestine as a state.
The cancellation is seen as retaliation for France’s stance on the Palestinian issue. Israel’s interior ministry stated that the decision was based on a law allowing authorities to bar entry to individuals who could act against the state of Israel.
A Response to Macron’s Statement
The French delegation, which included members of the Ecologist and Communist parties, was set to visit Israel and Palestinian territories to promote international cooperation and peace. However, just two days before their departure, they were informed that their visas, which had been approved a month earlier, were being revoked.
This unexpected move was termed as “collective punishment” by the French lawmakers, who called on Macron to intervene. “We want to understand what led to this sudden decision,” they said, emphasizing that this was the first time a visa cancellation had occurred so close to a scheduled visit.
Diplomatic Fallout
The group, which included notable left-wing figures like Francois Ruffin and Soumya Bourouaha, described the visa cancellations as a “major rupture in diplomatic ties.” The lawmakers, who have long supported the recognition of Palestine, emphasized that their trip aimed to foster peace and international cooperation. They also demanded immediate action from the French government to address the situation.
“This is a direct challenge to the principles of diplomacy and international exchange,” they said, urging President Macron to ensure their safe entry into Israel.
Rising Tensions Between Nations
Israel’s move is the latest in a series of similar actions taken against foreign lawmakers. Just days earlier, two British members of parliament were detained and deported by Israeli authorities at Tel Aviv airport, citing similar reasons. This marks a clear escalation in tensions between Israel and countries critical of its policies regarding Palestine.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized Macron’s plans, warning that recognizing Palestine as a state would reward terrorism and destabilize the region.
As the diplomatic crisis continues to unfold, the world watches closely to see how both nations navigate these turbulent waters.
