The UK has barred American left-wing commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur from entering the country, after the Home Office revoked their travel authorization ahead of scheduled appearances at SXSW London and the Oxford Union.
British authorities reportedly said their presence was “not conducive to the public good,” while the two commentators claimed the decision was linked to their public attacks on Israel. Piker, one of the most prominent political streamers on the American left, has drawn heavy criticism for past inflammatory comments, including statements seen by Jewish groups as support for Hamas.
Uygur, the founder of The Young Turks, has also faced criticism over Israel-related comments. Both deny antisemitism and say the ban is an attack on free speech.
The move comes amid rising concern in Britain over antisemitism and the platforming of anti-Israel figures in major public forums. Free speech groups criticized the UK government for not giving more detailed reasons for the ban, while supporters of the decision said the government was right to act against figures whose rhetoric could inflame tensions at a dangerous time.