Dublin, Jun 06 (V7N) – Ireland has imposed an entry ban on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, citing their controversial statements regarding Palestinians and their support for policies aimed at removing Palestinians from their homeland.
Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin announced on Friday that the two far-right Israeli ministers had adopted positions that suggested a desire to drive Palestinians from their land, a stance Ireland considers unacceptable.
According to Ireland's Ministry of Justice, immigration authorities have been instructed to deny entry to Ben-Gvir and Smotrich should they attempt to enter the country.
The decision comes amid growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and increasing scrutiny of statements made by senior Israeli officials. Martin also referenced the treatment of pro-Palestinian activists involved in a humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza. Recent footage showing the detention of activists, reportedly shared by Ben-Gvir, drew widespread criticism from human rights advocates and political leaders.
Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, both key members of Israel's governing coalition since 2022, have repeatedly advocated for the annexation of Palestinian territories and have supported policies involving the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Ireland has been among the most vocal European nations in criticizing Israeli policies toward Palestinians and has consistently called for greater protection of civilian rights and adherence to international law in the region.
The latest move by Dublin is expected to further strain relations between Ireland and Israel amid ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
END/SMA/AJ
