Israel has detained and refused entry to two British Members of Parliament, Yuan Yang and Abtisam Mohamed, along with two of their aides, during what the UK Foreign Office confirmed was an official parliamentary delegation to the region.
The MPs, who represent Earley and Woodley, and Sheffield Central respectively, flew to Israel from Luton Airport on Saturday. Upon arrival, all four individuals were reportedly interrogated before being denied entry by Israel’s Interior Minister, Moshe Arbel.
Citing the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority, Sky News reported that the officials were turned away on suspicion of intending to “document the activities of security forces and spread anti-Israel hatred.”
Reacting to the development, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Israel’s actions as “unacceptable, counterproductive, and deeply concerning,” confirming that the Foreign Office was in contact with both MPs to provide support.
“I have made clear to my counterparts in the Israeli government that this is no way to treat British Parliamentarians,” Lammy said in a statement issued late Saturday.
Israel’s immigration ministry has claimed it was unaware the visit was part of an official delegation. However, the UK Foreign Office confirmed the group’s visit had official status.
The Times of Israel also reported that no formal diplomatic clearance had been verified for the visit, adding to the confusion surrounding the delegation’s reception.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions over the conflict in Gaza, where UK officials have continued to push for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and renewed negotiations to end the fighting.
Lammy reiterated the UK government’s position, stating: “Our focus remains securing a return to the ceasefire and negotiations to stop the bloodshed, free the hostages, and end the conflict in Gaza.”
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