Six Canadian MPs were denied entry to the occupied West Bank by Israeli authorities while attempting to cross from Jordan on Tuesday. The MPs were part of a delegation of about 30 people travelling on a trip organized by The Canadian-Muslim Vote, a Canadian non-profit group.
Israeli officials said the group was turned away for security reasons, claiming the organization behind the trip has links to Islamic Relief Worldwide, which Israel lists as a banned group. Islamic Relief Worldwide, its Canadian branch, and The Canadian-Muslim Vote strongly deny the allegations, saying their work is humanitarian and legally funded.
Five of the MPs denied entry are Liberals, while one is from the NDP. NDP MP Jenny Kwan called the decision “completely unacceptable” and rejected claims that the delegation posed any safety risk. Muslim advocacy groups in Canada also criticized the move, saying the trip was meant to observe conditions on the ground and meet with humanitarian groups.
Canada’s foreign affairs minister confirmed the incident and said Ottawa raised concerns with Israeli officials. The denial comes amid rising tensions between Canada and Israel following Canada’s recent recognition of a Palestinian state.
(Source: BBC News)
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