UK MPs Barred from Israel: "It Was About Censorship and Control," Says Abtisam Mohamed
The recent denial of entry to Israel for UK Labour MPs Abtisam Mohamed and Yuan Yang has ignited a fierce debate, with Mohamed asserting that the move was an act of "censorship and control." The MPs, part of a parliamentary delegation, were detained upon arrival and subsequently returned to the UK, marking what Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer believes is the first instance of a British MP being barred from entering Israel.
Israel has stated that it will not allow entry to individuals or entities acting against the state and its citizens, accusing Mohamed and Yang of making "false claims" and promoting sanctions against Israeli ministers.
Mohamed, the MP for Sheffield Central, firmly rejected these claims, stating that the denial was based on their "legitimate political opinions, which are firmly aligned with international law." She emphasized that the issue was not about security but about suppressing dissenting voices. Yuan Yang, the Berkshire MP for Earley and Woodley, acknowledged the risks of traveling to the region but expressed surprise at being detained and deported by a British ally.
The incident has drawn mixed reactions from UK political figures. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch supported Israel's right to control its borders, a stance echoed by Conservative shadow Foreign Office spokesperson Wendy Morton, who pointed to the UK Foreign Office's guidance that visitors who have publicly criticized Israel may face longer searches and questioning.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has criticised Badenoch's comments as disgraceful, while Falconer expressed surprise at Morton's response and urged Badenoch to apologise. He clarified that the Israeli government was aware of the MPs' travel plans prior to their arrival.
Liberal Democrat MP Monica Harding voiced her disappointment with Morton's comments and raised concerns about a UN report detailing alleged mistreatment and torture of Palestinian detainees by Israeli forces. Falconer responded that the government would continue to discuss such concerning reports with Israel.
While Foreign Affairs Committee chairwoman Dame Emily Thornberry condemned the treatment of Mohamed and Yang as an insult to Parliament, Conservative Bob Blackman noted instances of the UK denying entry to elected politicians. The DUP's Sammy Wilson accused Labour MPs of "faux outrage," citing past campaigns within their party to exclude former US President Donald Trump from the UK.
The situation continues to unfold, raising important questions about the balance between national security, freedom of expression, and diplomatic relations between allies.