Israel bans visit by two United States Congresswomen

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — Two controversial United States Congresswomen have been barred from visiting Israel.

Representatives Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan were supposed to start their visit on Sunday.

That won’t happen.

Isreali Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu put a stop to their travel plans on Thursday.

President Trump chimed in on Twitter before Netanyahu gave the official word.

“It would show great weakness if Israel allowed Rep. Omar and Rep.Tlaib to visit. They hate Israel & all Jewish people, & there is nothing that can be said or done to change their minds. Minnesota and Michigan will have a hard time putting them back in office. They are a disgrace!”

Israel’s deputy foreign minister Tzipi Hotovely says the decision to bar two U.S. Democratic congresswomen is in keeping with a policy of denying entry to those who advocate boycotts of Israel.

The Congresswomen, who are Muslims have said they harbor no ill will toward Jews or Israelis. Their criticisms have been focused on Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians and they’ve advocated for a boycott against the country.