Canadian MP Denied Entry to West Bank Questions Israel’s Safety Claims
West Bank — Canadian lawmaker Jenny Kwan has rejected Israel’s justification for blocking her and other Canadian delegates from entering the occupied West Bank. Israel claimed the delegation posed a public safety risk.
Kwan, a member of Canada’s left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP), said the decision raised questions about Israel’s reasoning. “How is it that members of parliament are a public safety concern?” she asked in an interview with Al Jazeera. “How is it that civil society organizations carrying out humanitarian work are considered a security threat?”
Blocked Delegation
Kwan was among six Canadian MPs and 30 delegates who were denied entry on Tuesday. The group, organized by the nonprofit The Canadian-Muslim Vote, was turned back at the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge, which connects Jordan to the West Bank and is controlled by Israel on the Palestinian side. Delegates underwent hours-long security checks before being sent back to Jordan.
Possible Political Context
The Canadian MP also questioned whether Canada’s recent recognition of an independent Palestinian state influenced Israel’s decision to block the delegation. She expressed concern over the implications for parliamentary oversight and humanitarian efforts in the region.
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