Knesset passes law banning BDS activists from country

The Knesset has passed on its final readings a controversial law that bans activists who call for boycott, divestment and sanctions against Israel from being able to visit the country.

The law applies to anyone who calls publicly for a boycott of the State of Israel or works for an organization that support a boycott on Israel, aside from citizens of permanent residents. It also allows the interior minister to make exceptions.

According to the bill, the BDS movement represents the “new front in the war against the State of Israel, which has stopped Israel from preparing against it as necessary. The proposed law will prevent people or representatives of companies, foundations or groups calling for a boycott of Israel from operating within the lands of the State of Israel to advance their ideas.”

The law, which has received support from both right-wing and centrist parties, passes by a vote of 46-28 on its third and final reading.