Israel deports 11 foreigners for Chevron military zone breach

The Population and Immigration Authority deported eleven foreign nationals from Israel over the weekend after they were detained by security forces in the Chevron area. The foreigners, who entered Israel on tourist visas, violated a closed military zone order, refused to identify themselves to soldiers and interfered with IDF operations in the sector.

According to the Population and Immigration Authority, the eleven violated the terms of their entry permits and were brought to hearings before their removal from the country. Following the legal process, led by the Authority's Enforcement and Foreigners Administration, the foreign nationals were deported to various destinations.

Citizens from seven countries

The deported foreigners came from countries across the world: the United States, Hungary, Italy, Austria, England, Germany and Ireland. They were all staying in Israel on tourist visas, but according to the Authority they used the permits for purposes other than tourism.

This incident joins a series of similar events in the Chevron area in recent months. Just weeks ago, a woman in her twenties was located after being forcibly taken by family members and brought into the city of Chevron, in a joint operation by police and the IDF.

Machine gun seized in Gush Etzion (Israel Police Spokesperson)

Ongoing enforcement activity

The Population and Immigration Authority stated it will continue to act decisively against those who exploit tourist visas granted by the State of Israel for purposes other than tourism, thereby violating the terms of their permits. The Authority operates in close coordination with security forces throughout Judea and Samaria.

In recent weeks, enforcement activity has intensified against foreigners violating the terms of their stay in Israel. The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism recently recommended barring entry to a German journalist who had called in articles for sanctions to be imposed on Israel.

Security forces continue routine operations in the Chevron sector and throughout Judea and Samaria, with strict enforcement of military orders and prevention of interference with force activities.