UK authorities bar US commentators Cenk and Piker from the country

Two US citizens have been denied entry to the United Kingdom due to their outspoken criticism of Israel. Cenk Uygur, co-founder of The Young Turks, and his nephew Hasan Piker, a prominent internet personality, claim they were barred from entering the country.

Uygur reported that he was informed of the restriction while attempting to board a flight to London, where he was scheduled to attend the SXSW London festival. British authorities cited his public comments about Israel as the reason for the decision. According to Uygur, the government stated that he is considered a “serious risk” due to his criticism of Israel.

Piker also reported being denied entry, with UK officials stating that his presence was deemed “not conducive to the public good”. Both individuals have expressed frustration with the decision, with Piker stating that the interests of Israel seem to take precedence over other considerations. The UK had previously barred US rapper Ye from entering the country due to his history of anti-Semitic remarks.

The reported restrictions come as part of a pattern of actions by British authorities in recent weeks. Event organizers and public statements from Ye have not appeared to sway the decision, with officials defending their stance despite appeals.

Source: Al Jazeera