Chicago – December 17, 2025
Israel has barred a private Canadian delegation, including six members of Parliament, from entering the occupied West Bank, prompting a diplomatic complaint from Ottawa. The group had planned a three-day fact-finding visit to meet displaced Palestinians and civil society representatives.
According to Canadian Muslim civic organizations involved in the trip, Israeli officials blocked the delegation at the Allenby Bridge crossing from Jordan, citing security concerns tied to alleged links with Islamic Relief Worldwide, which Israel designates as a terrorist organization. The delegation’s sponsor, The Canadian-Muslim Vote, reportedly receives funding from Islamic Relief Canada, a subsidiary of the UK-based charity.
The Israeli Embassy in Canada confirmed the decision, saying Israel “will not allow the entry of organizations and individuals who are associated with designated terror entities.” Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said Canada objects to the treatment of the delegation and has raised the issue with Israeli authorities. The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of settlement expansion and Canada’s recent recognition of Palestinian statehood under specific conditions.
