DUBLIN, June 6 (Alliance News): Ireland has imposed an entry ban on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, citing their statements and conduct toward Palestinians.
According to a statement issued by Ireland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the remarks and actions of the two ministers reflect what it described as hostility toward Palestinians and warrant stronger measures.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a European Union-Western Balkans summit, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said the country’s justice minister had instructed authorities to deny entry to Ben-Gvir and Smotrich if they attempt to visit Ireland.
Martin stated that the ministers’ comments and policies appeared to support the displacement of Palestinians from their land, adding that the issue should also be considered at the European Union level for possible sanctions.
The decision comes amid growing international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and follows last month’s incident involving the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian aid mission bound for Gaza.
Following the interception of the flotilla and the detention of activists, Ben-Gvir shared videos on social media that were widely condemned by several countries and human rights organizations as offensive and inhumane.
Ireland has now joined a number of countries that have taken punitive measures against the two Israeli ministers. Similar sanctions or travel restrictions have previously been announced by countries including United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.
The move underscores growing international concern over inflammatory rhetoric and policies related to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
