Ireland Bans Entry of Israeli Ministers Ben Gvir and Smotrich

The Irish government has decided to bar two Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben Gvir, Minister of National Security, and Bezalel Smotrich, Minister of Finance, from entering its territory, issuing travel bans against them, according to Irish television.

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin confirmed during a speech at the European Union and Western Balkans summit held in Tivat, Montenegro, that Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan imposed the travel bans on the two Israeli government ministers.

Martin stated that the conduct and statements of the two ministers "amount to a desire to see the extermination of Palestinians from Palestine."

He expressed his belief that further measures should be taken by the European Union against them.

Following Poland's lead, France has also prohibited Ben Gvir from entering its territory.

Martin remarked, "This is another matter the international community needs to consider, and we will seek to achieve this with others."

He added, "In my opinion, their behavior justifies imposing sanctions at the EU level as well, and this is something we will raise. Whether we can secure sufficient support across the EU is another matter."

In a statement, a spokesperson for Minister O'Callaghan said the travel bans on the Israeli ministers were implemented after government approval outside of this week's cabinet decision.

The spokesperson clarified, "In line with the Prime Minister's statement that Ireland will take measures to prevent members of the Israeli government who played an active role in fueling the escalating disaster in Gaza from entering our country, the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Immigration has instructed immigration officials to refuse entry to Itamar Ben Gvir, Israeli Minister of National Security, and Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli Minister of Finance, if either attempts to enter."