Overview
- The Home Office confirmed on Monday that it had cancelled the electronic travel authorisations of Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker, preventing them from boarding flights to attend SXSW London and an event at Oxford University.
- The department said the cancellations were made because the pair’s presence “may not be conducive to the public good” and added that individuals whose ETAs are cancelled may apply for a visa for fuller consideration.
- Anonymous U.K. officials and press reporting said the move reflected assessments that some of the commentators’ remarks about Israel crossed into antisemitic territory, a claim both men reject and say the bans target their criticism of Israeli policy.
- SXSW London and Oxford organisers are exploring alternatives, including virtual participation, but both commentators remain barred from appearing in person while offers to pursue formal visas remain available.
- The decision follows other high‑profile entry bans this year and rests on the ETA system, a visa‑waiver permission that allows short visits and can be revoked on public‑order grounds before a separate visa process reviews an applicant’s case.