France Denies Entry to Israeli Official Over Settlement Activity

French authorities denied entry to Yossi Dagan, the head of the Shomron Regional Council, last week as he arrived at Paris airport for a series of political meetings. Dagan stated that during questioning, he was informed that the reason for the denial was his activity promoting construction in Judea and Samaria and efforts to renew settlement in Gush Katif. He described being taken for an extended interrogation where an immigration officer presented documents related to the entry ban, explaining it was tied to his role and advocacy for settlement expansion.

Dagan responded to the officer by saying, "I am proud to be a Jew and a Zionist and to build the historical homeland of the Jewish people. Proud to be on the right side of history." Following the incident in France, Dagan traveled to Prague, Czech Republic, where he held meetings with government, Senate, and Parliament representatives over three days. During his visit, he met with Czech officials who reportedly expressed support for Israeli settlement in Judea and Samaria.

According to a statement, Andrej Kuntak, identified as the chairman of the Czech ruling party's faction in the European Parliament, told Dagan, "Thank you for being the front line defending Europe. Sovereignty with you is important." Jiri Oberfalzer, deputy chairman of the Czech Senate, was also quoted as saying, "I strengthen the residents of Shomron. I wish you success in guarding your land. We are with you."

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong condemnation, stating, "Israel views with grave severity France's decision to prohibit the entry of a law-abiding Israeli public representative on clear political and ideological grounds. This is a completely unacceptable step, and Israel will demand explanations from the French government and will consider its steps accordingly."