Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen announced the cancellation of the residence visa of UN Humanitarian Coordinator Lynne Hastings.
In a message on platform (X), Cohen stated, “We will no longer remain silent against the UN’s bias… I have decided to cancel Lynne Hastings’s residence visa in Israel.”
He criticized Hastings for not condemning Hamas for brutal acts against Israelis, including kidnapping and use of Gazans as human shields, while condemning Israel instead.
Hamas, in response, claimed the cancellation was due to Hastings’s refusal to adopt Israel’s “false narrative” against Hamas. Describing the action as “arrogant and supremacist,” Hamas called for a firm international stance against “Zionist extortion” and disrespect for UN structures and personnel.
Notably, the Israeli government has issued travel warnings for its citizens heading to Western Europe and Australia, urging them to exercise caution and avoid displaying their identities amid escalating tensions during the conflict period.
According to Bloomberg, the extended travel alerts cover the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia, with the threat level raised from 1 to 2.
Israel has advised travelers to these destinations to steer clear of large gatherings, including pro-Palestinian marches and other events that may pose risks to Israelis.
The government’s concern stems from Iran’s alleged intentions to target Israeli nationals abroad, including Jewish sites.