Israeli border officials denied entry to a delegation that included Scottish politicians, citing concerns that their planned activities in the West Bank amounted to 'intentional provocation for social media clout' in an area of heightened tensions.
SNP MP Lara Bird and Green MSP Kate Nevens were reportedly among those turned away. The Israeli Embassy in the UK stated that the group failed to cooperate and provided misleading information regarding their visit's purpose. According to the embassy, routine questioning revealed discrepancies between their initial itinerary and their actual plans, which allegedly included political activities intended for social media engagement.
"Routine questioning by border agents revealed that their initially provided itinerary did not reflect their actual plans, which included political activities and intentional provocation for social media clout," a spokesperson for the Israel Embassy in the UK said. "Hence the group was refused entry to Israel."
The embassy further emphasized that Israel welcomes dialogue but requires honesty and transparency, asserting its right to verify the intentions of individuals seeking entry. The issue, according to the embassy, was not the politicians' views but the lack of transparency and discrepancies in their declared versus intended activities.
It is understood that the group's initial itinerary focused on the Jerusalem area, but their intentions reportedly shifted to visiting areas of increased tension, such as olive farms. This move echoes a similar incident last month involving New York Democratic congressional nominee Brad Lander, who was detained after working with olive harvest groups in the West Bank, an event described as a 'calculated political stunt.'
Ms. Bird, upon being denied entry, stated on social media that she planned to 'stand alongside Palestinians being attacked for harvesting olives on their own land' and claimed the group was turned away 'with no reason given.'
Progressive International, the organization responsible for the delegation, stated that Israeli authorities prevented them from witnessing the occupation of the West Bank and criticized Israel's actions as denying access to international observers. The organization declined to confirm if public funds were used for the trip, noting that delegates would make usual parliamentary declarations. However, an SNP official clarified that Progressive International covered Ms. Bird's entire trip, and no public money was utilized.
Scottish politicians from other parties have criticized the delegation's actions. Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton condemned Ms. Bird and Ms. Nevens for 'political grandstanding,' suggesting their 'posturing' is an 'insult to their constituents.' Reform MSP Angela Ross also denounced 'performative grandstanding' and 'misplaced priorities.' The Scottish Greens have been contacted for comment.