Israel bars U.S. citizens over criticism and ties to Palestinian activists, lawyers say
Lawyers report that Israel is increasingly denying entry to U.S. citizens and other international travelers based on their political views or ties to Palestinian organizations. While the Israeli government cites security protocols, critics argue this represents a significant shift in border policy.
Why it matters
The policy raises concerns regarding freedom of movement and the diplomatic implications of restricting entry based on political expression.
RAMALLAH, West Bank — U.S. and other international travelers are increasingly being denied entry to Israel following interrogations about their connections to Palestinians, plans to visit the occupied West Bank and opinions of Israel, their lawyers say.
In August alone, Israel denied entry to a group of U.S. and other international comedians invited to perform for a Palestinian comedy festival, as well as to a U.S. multifaith delegation seeking to tour the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jerusalem with a Palestinian Christian organization.
State of the World from NPR Israeli settlers besiege a West Bank house owned by a U.S. citizen Entry denials have risen sharply over the past year and for reasons that did not constitute grounds for denial previously, including suspicions of anti-Israel views, say Israeli lawyers who represent travelers who were denied entry.
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