Newsrael system 28.11.2020
Should Israel continue to refuse entry to anti-Israeli politicians?
In 2019, Israel barred the entry of U.S Congresswomen Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib. The two had planned a work visit to Israel focused on the impact of U.S. policies and aid cuts to Palestinians.
At the time, the official reason given by Israel for the denial of entry was the congresswoman's' support of the anti-Israeli BDS boycott movement.
Tlaib and Omar are vocal critics of Israel, specifically its policy towards the Palestinians. Omar in particular had been accused of repeatedly making antisemitic remarks.
In a letter sent to House Democrats earlier that year, PM Netanyahu wrote about his concern regarding BDS supporters visiting Israel, who “under the banner of justice and human rights actively work to delegitimize the State of Israel and negate its very right to exist.”
Israel received criticism over its decision, and was accused of undermining its own democratic values by refusing entry to people with opposing views.
A continuation of this policy could also run afoul of a potential Biden administration, in which Tlaib and Omar could have considerable influence.
Should Israel continue to prevent the entry of Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, and others who hold their views? Let us know in the comments.
Did you find this article interesting?