British MPs from the Labour Party were denied entry to Israel’s West Bank, sparking criticism from UK ministers, amid growing tensions over Palestine.
Background and Planned Visit
British parliamentarians Peter Prinsley and Simon Opher from the Labour Party had planned to visit the West Bank in Palestine to familiarize themselves with challenges faced by humanitarian organizations, including Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).
The visit, organized by the Arab-British Understanding Council (CAABU), also aimed to meet with British diplomats and Palestinian and Israeli human rights organizations.
Denied Entry and Reactions
Israeli authorities rejected the Britons’ entry application, citing “public order” concerns, and escorted them to a bus back to Jordan.
Simon Opher stated that their goal was not to undermine Israel but to assess the situation on the West Bank, where access to healthcare is becoming increasingly difficult.
UK Health Minister Wes Streeting described Israel’s actions as “shameful but unsurprising,” while Foreign Minister Hamish Falconer deemed the situation “unacceptable.”
Previous Incidents and Diplomatic Context
This is not the first instance, as two other Labour MPs, Abtisam Mohamed and Yuan Yang, were denied entry in April on grounds of allegedly promoting hate speech.
CAABU Director Chris Doyle expressed disappointment, noting that such visits have been taking place for many years.
The incident comes amid UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement that Britain may recognize Palestine as a state if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire in Gaza.
