Bethlehem: Israeli ban on French delegation ‘unacceptable breach’ undermining peace and cooperation
The Municipality of Bethlehem has strongly denounced the Israeli regime’s decision to ban the entry of a 50-strong delegation of French local officials as an “unacceptable breach” of international cooperation and a deliberate attempt to obstruct peace-building efforts between the Palestinian and French peoples.
Bethlehem’s Mayor Anton Salman made the remarks in a statement dated Wednesday after Israeli authorities abruptly revoked the delegation’s entry, citing alleged associations with groups deemed “hostile” to “Israel’s security.”
The delegation, representing municipalities including Grenoble, Montpellier, and Strasbourg, had been scheduled to visit Bethlehem as part of the “Palestine Year 2025” initiative. The program marks three decades of partnership between French and Palestinian local authorities. The visit had been intended to culminate in a closing ceremony celebrating joint cooperation projects.
Salman expressed deep disapproval of the regime’s actions, stating that they “do not only aim to undermine civil initiatives; they also punish actors who dedicate their efforts to building a just and lasting peace.”
He emphasized that such measures were part of a broader strategy to isolate the Palestinian people.
The mayor, though, affirmed Bethlehem’s commitment to its values, highlighting the city’s historical significance as the birthplace of Jesus Christ and its dedication to peace, dignity, and freedom.
Also reacting to the development, Palestinian pastor, author, and theologian, Munther Isaac wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that “Israel is slowly turning Bethlehem and other Palestinian cities into new “Gazas.” Totally isolated from the world…,” referring to the Israeli-blockaded Gaza Strip, which is undergoing a hugely deadly and devastating war of genocide by Tel Aviv.
The ban followed the regime’s recent cancellation of visas for 27 French lawmakers and local officials, actions that have drawn sharp criticism from France’s foreign ministry, which described them as “regrettable, counterproductive, and damaging to Franco-Israeli relations.”
It also occured after French President Emmanuel Macron signaled that his country might recognize a Palestinian state in the coming months, a move that has been met with strong opposition from Israeli officials.
