France Denies Entry to Israeli Official Over Settlement Activity

French authorities denied entry to Yossi Dagan, the head of the Samaria Regional Council, last week as he arrived at Paris airport for a series of political meetings. Dagan stated that during passport control, he was informed that his entry was refused due to his activities promoting construction in Judea and Samaria and efforts to renew settlement in Gush Katif. He was reportedly taken for an extended interrogation where an immigration officer presented documents related to the entry ban, explaining the decision was linked to his role and advocacy for settlement expansion.

Dagan responded to the officer by saying he was proud to be a Jew and a Zionist building the historic homeland of the Jewish people and 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. During his visit, he met with Czech officials who expressed support for Israeli settlement in Judea and Samaria.

Andrej Kuntek, identified as the chairman of the Czech ruling party's faction in the European Parliament, reportedly told Dagan, "Thank you for being the front line defending Europe. Sovereignty is important for you." The Deputy Chairman of the Czech Senate, Jiri Oberfalzer, was quoted as saying, "I strengthen the residents of Samaria. I wish you success in defending your land. We are with you."

Israel's Foreign Ministry condemned the decision, calling it "completely unacceptable" and stating that Israel "views with great gravity" the refusal to allow a law-abiding Israeli public representative entry based on "clear political and ideological reasons." Israel will demand explanations from the French government and will consider its next steps accordingly.