GUE/NGL MEPs have strongly condemned Israel's actions after it issued Dr Mads Gilbert, a prominent Norwegian humanitarian activist, with a lifetime ban on entering Gaza.

Irish GUE/NGL MEP Martina Anderson, Chair of Parliament's Delegation for relations with the Palestinian Legislative Council, commented: “To deny humanitarian personnel access to Gaza is completely unacceptable and we condemn this move by Israel. The heroic work of people like Dr Mads Gilbert means that lives are saved.

“Their presence in Gaza also means we hear first-hand accounts of the reality on the ground; an incredibly uncomfortable situation for Israel who see more and more of their former sympathisers waking up to the horrors of the occupation.”

Dr Mads Gilbert has been outspoken in his condemnation of Israel's deadly military assault on Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis. In July, he spent over 50 days treating the injured in Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital. In September he testified before the Russell Tribunal on Palestine (RToP).

Portuguese GUE/NGL MEP Marisa Matias, who in September chaired a European Parliament session on the RToP's findings, said: “We can't accept that Gaza is shut off from the world. We call for Dr Gilbert to be let in so he can continue his work. He has vividly described the horrific conditions for people in Gaza. His testimony is vital and helps us push for an end to this immoral occupation.”

GUE/NGL Press Contacts:
Emily Macintosh +32 470 85 05 08
David Lundy +32 470 85 05 09
European United Left / Nordic Green Left
European Parliamentary Group