US Embassy denies Ben-Gvir visa waiver, requires fingerprint, visit canceled
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir canceled his planned US trip after the US Embassy required him to provide fingerprints for a visa application, a procedure typically waived for senior officials. Ben-Gvir, who has arrest warrants in several countries, was denied diplomatic treatment. He has frequently criticized Trump and opposed the US-Iran deal.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right figure with arrest warrants in multiple countries, has canceled his planned trip to the United States after the US Embassy required him to provide fingerprints for a visa application, Israeli media reported. Ben-Gvir had applied for a visa to attend a wedding and a diplomatic meeting. The US Embassy’s request for fingerprints is unusual for a senior minister, as diplomatic visas are typically waived for such officials. Ben-Gvir’s office confirmed the fingerprint request, and the minister subsequently canceled the trip.
Criticism of Trump
Ben-Gvir is known for his frequent criticism of President Trump, including recent comments opposing the US-Iran peace deal. He has also stated that Israel is not an “American colony,” a remark that drew sharp reactions. The embassy’s decision to require fingerprints rather than granting a diplomatic waiver is seen by Israeli commentators as a snub, reflecting tensions between Ben-Gvir and the Trump administration. The minister has been barred from entering several countries due to his role in settler violence and his support for annexation.
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