Israel Denies Entry to Italian Priest Over Gaza War Criticism

Italian priest Don Nandino Capovilla was denied entry to Israel at Ben-Gurion Airport and deported to Greece for reasons cited as 'public security' or 'public order,' likely due to his outspoken criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza and his recent book highlighting the plight of Palestinians. Capovilla, a longtime member of the Catholic peace group Pax Christi, was detained for seven hours in a facility near the airport before being released, while the rest of his pilgrimage group was allowed to continue to Bethlehem. He has publicly accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians and called for sanctions against Israel, urging journalists to highlight the ongoing plight of Palestinians who have been confined to their land for 70 years. Italian officials, including Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, have expressed concerns over Israel's policies, considering sanctions to protect Italian citizens and distinguishing between governments and peoples. Archbishop Giovanni Ricchiuti, leading the pilgrimage, expressed frustration at the lack of clear explanation but attributed the refusal to Capovilla's critical stance and recent publication. The incident has sparked debate over Israel's approach to dissent and its broader military actions in Gaza.