Benjamin Netanyahu / French MP was becoming a threat to Israel, Netanyahu sentenced him

Israel has barred the entry of 27 French MPs and officials. This decision was taken two days before their planned visit. After the cancellation of visas, the MPs called it 'collective punishment' and demanded intervention from Macron. The diplomatic dispute has deepened over this decision.

Benjamin Netanyahu: A new tension arose in relations between Israel and France when Israel banned 27 French MPs and local officials from entering the country. The ban came just two days before their planned official visit, causing a stir in political and diplomatic circles.

Visas suddenly cancelled

On Sunday, the French MPs were informed that their entry visas had been cancelled. All these MPs are associated with the leftist and communist parties of France, and they were invited by the French Consulate in Jerusalem for a five-day official visit. The purpose of the visit was - "to promote international cooperation and peace".

Citing national security

Israel's Interior Ministry resorted to a special law to cancel the visas, which allows the government to prevent the entry of individuals who are considered a threat to national interests. However, serious questions are being raised about this decision whether this law can be applied to the extent of hurting diplomatic relations.

Strong protest and demand from the President

The banned MPs issued a joint statement calling it a 'collective punishment' and a 'serious rift in diplomatic relations'. They have demanded a response from French President Emmanuel Macron, and urged him to put pressure on Israel to reverse the decision. The MPs also reiterated that their political parties have supported an independent Palestinian state for years—a stance that was recently supported by President Macron himself.

Signs of rising tensions

This development is not an isolated case. Earlier this month, Israel deported two British MPs from the country after stopping them at Tel Aviv airport. This makes it clear that Israel is taking a tough stand against its critics, even if they are part of international delegations.

Which MPs were banned?

The banned MPs include prominent names—National Assembly deputies Francois Ruffin, Alexis Corbiere, Julie Ozanne, Communist deputy Soumya Borouha and Senator Marianne Margret. Apart from these, many mayors and local elected officials were also included in this group.