Israel blocks Canadian delegation from visiting occupied West Bank

Wednesday, December 17, 2025 -Israeli authorities on Tuesday denied entry to a Canadian delegation, including six members of Parliament and civil society representatives, who were trying to enter the occupied West Bank from Jordan via the Allenby Bridge crossing. 

The group had planned a fact-finding mission to meet with Palestinian communities, local leaders, and humanitarian organisations to observe conditions on the ground. Israeli officials said the delegation was turned away on security and public safety grounds, citing links between the sponsoring organisation and a group Israel considers a terrorist entity.

Members of the delegation, including MPs from both the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party, rejected the security rationale and said they had received valid electronic travel authorisations before travel. 

Some delegates described tense interactions with border officials, including alleged physical handling during questioning. The Canadian delegation said it had informed Israeli authorities about the visit in advance and was acting in good faith to engage with diverse communities affected by ongoing conflict and displacement.

The incident has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and raised questions about access to the West Bank for independent observers, especially elected officials. Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister expressed objections over how the delegates were treated, while advocates argue that blocking entry undermines transparency and humanitarian engagement. 

The refusal comes amid broader tensions in the region and follows Canada’s recent recognition of an independent Palestinian state, a policy shift that has already strained ties with Israel.