Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said in a social media post that he is unable to enter the United Kingdom because of his efforts to eliminate the idea of a Palestinian state. The statement follows a similar ban by France, which Israel's Foreign Ministry condemned as an attempt to impose political positions.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said early Thursday morning that he is unable to enter the United Kingdom because of his work to eliminate the Palestinian state idea. The remark was made in a social media post in which he also congratulated a footballer named Javier for scoring two goals, though the connection between the two statements was not clear. Smotrich's comment comes amid an ongoing controversy over travel restrictions imposed on him by European countries. In June, France barred Smotrich from entering the country, a decision that Israel's Foreign Ministry labeled politically motivated. Smotrich, a senior figure in the religious Zionist camp, has been a vocal opponent of Palestinian statehood and has advanced settlement expansion in Judea and Samaria. As The Zioneer reported, the French ban was condemned by Israeli officials. Smotrich's latest statement suggests he may now also face restrictions from the UK, though it is not clear whether the UK has issued an official ban or if Smotrich is referring to anticipated difficulties. The post was shared on his social media channels and quickly circulated.
- DevelopingIsrael's Foreign Ministry condemns France's ban on Smotrich entry
- StrongSmotrich: Weak government would evacuate settlements, establish Palestinian state
- StrongSmotrich says Gaza deal bad for Israel, vows to continue campaign in 'creative ways'
- DevelopingSmotrich warns in new video: Bennett would establish a Palestinian state in Eisenkot government
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