Israel Protests French Ban on Settler Leader Yossi Dagan

Israel's Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation after France denied entry to Yossi Dagan, the head of the Shomron Regional Council. The ministry called the decision "completely unacceptable" and stated that Israel views the ban on a "law-abiding Israeli public representative" as politically and ideologically motivated. Israel intends to demand explanations from the French government and will consider its next steps.

Dagan was detained at Paris airport last week while on his way to policy meetings. French immigration authorities prevented his entry, citing his activities promoting settlement in Judea and Samaria, the establishment of 35 settlements, and efforts to return to Gush Katif. During questioning, an immigration officer reportedly presented Dagan with documents barring his entry.

Dagan stated, "I am proud to be a Jew and a Zionist and to build the historic homeland of the Jewish people. Proud to be on the right side of history." Following the incident, Dagan traveled to Prague, Czech Republic, where he held meetings with government, Senate, and Parliament members.

Several Czech officials expressed support for Dagan and the residents of Samaria. Yiri Oberplazel, Deputy Chairman of the Czech Senate, conveyed solidarity with Israel and the residents, urging Western civilization to understand the true nature of the conflict and to disregard misinformation. He sent greetings and encouragement to the residents of Samaria, wishing them success in preserving their land and culture.

Andrej Kontek, chairman of the Czech ruling party's faction in the European Parliament, also voiced support for Dagan and the Samaria residents after their meeting. The incident occurs amid existing tensions between France and Israel, including French accusations of Iranian cyberattacks and a French Foreign Ministry report alleging Israeli-linked social media accounts spread "hostile information" about French protests. Dagan has recently been active in forming a European coalition against sanctions on Judea and Samaria and is promoting plans for new settlements in northern Samaria.