LOC16:52
13:52 GMT
PARIS, Aug 21 (KUNA) - The French government warned its nationals Tuesday
not to take part in the forthcoming "Welcome to Palestine" event which aims to
express solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Hundreds of French and Europeans have been trying for months to attend the
events in Palestine, but have been largely blocked at ports of entry into
Israel and have been detained and expelled.
The next efforts to get into Palestine are by-passing Israel and going
through Jordan via the Allenby crossing point into the Palestinian Territories.
"France draws attention of participants in the new Welcome to Palestine
initiative of the risks of ejection by the Israeli authorities as they pass
the Allenby crossing point between Jordan and the Palestinian Territories," a
statement from the Foreign Ministry said.
Israel has routinely arrested anyone suspected of going to Palestine to
express support for the Palestinian people and Israeli authorities have also
pressured airlines not to allow these people to embark at European airports.
Many airlines have agreed to the Israeli demands, prompting demonstrations
in several capitals and airports here.
France said it has advised the non-governmental organisations of the risks
they run if they try to go to Palestine via Jordan and has mobilised consular
assistance to help those who may be arrested.
"France recalls its attachment to the freedom of expression as well as to
the freedom of movement to and from the Palestinian Territories, which must be
accessible to foreign visitors," the statement said, noting that Paris
"regularly reminds the Israeli authorities of this principle." (End)
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