JERUSALEM — Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has canceled a planned visit to the United States after encountering difficulties in obtaining a U.S. visa, according to Israeli media reports and statements from the far-right minister.
Ben-Gvir, one of the most controversial figures in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, said he decided to abandon the trip after facing delays in the visa application process. The minister claimed that the procedures required by U.S. authorities would not allow him to receive the visa in time for his scheduled meetings.
Israeli media reported that U.S. officials requested additional administrative procedures, including a personal appearance as part of the visa application process. Neither the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem nor the U.S. State Department immediately commented on the reports.
The cancellation comes amid growing international criticism of Ben-Gvir, whose hardline positions on security and the Palestinian conflict have drawn condemnation from several Western governments and human rights organizations.
Ben-Gvir, leader of the ultranationalist Jewish Power party, has repeatedly sparked controversy through visits to sensitive religious sites in Jerusalem and calls for tougher measures against Palestinians. Critics accuse him of inflaming tensions, while supporters argue that he is defending Israel’s security interests.
The incident is likely to fuel further debate over Washington’s relationship with members of Israel’s far-right government at a time when the United States and Israel continue to coordinate closely on regional security issues.
While there is no indication that the visa delay amounted to an official travel ban, the episode highlights the diplomatic sensitivities surrounding one of Israel’s most polarizing political figures.
