Ben-Gvir Chief of Staff Cancels Cyprus Trip After France Imposes Entry Restrictions

Hannamel Dorfman, chief of staff to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, planned to attend a rehabilitation workshop in Cyprus for police officers exposed to traumatic events during the October 7 incidents. However, during preparations for the trip, Israeli security officials informed him that France had taken administrative measures against him, potentially complicating his entry into European countries and possibly resulting in his return to Israel. Due to this warning, Dorfman canceled the planned flight.

About two weeks ago, Dorfman announced he would step down from his role as Ben-Gvir's chief of staff to run in the upcoming Knesset elections on the Otzma Yehudit party list. He is considered one of Ben-Gvir's closest associates but had to leave his government post due to restrictions on civil servants running for parliament.

Responding to the news of France's actions, Dorfman stated, "It is an honor that an anti-Semitic country like France tries to harm me because of my closeness to Minister Ben-Gvir. This only proves I am on the right path. France will continue to complain, and I will continue to implement Minister Ben-Gvir's policies and act for Israel's national interests."