Overview

• Rima Hassan, an MEP from France's La France Insoumise (LFI) party, was refused entry to Israel upon her arrival at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport on February 24, 2025.
• Israeli authorities cited Hassan's history of controversial statements, including her support for armed resistance against Israel and endorsement of Hamas actions, as grounds for the decision.
• Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of LFI, condemned Israel's actions as 'maltraitance' and called for solidarity with Hassan, while also criticizing French political rival Jordan Bardella.
• Hassan's attempt to enter Israel was described by some as a deliberate act to highlight her stance on the Palestinian cause, given her vocal opposition to Israel's legitimacy.
• The incident has reignited debates over diplomatic relations, free movement, and the role of European politicians in Middle Eastern conflicts.