US political commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker have been barred from entering the United Kingdom to speak at events in London and Oxford, reportedly over concerns linked to their criticism of Israel.
Uygur, founder of The Young Turks, said he was denied entry after the UK cancelled his Electronic Travel Authorisation, preventing him from attending SXSW London and an Oxford Union speaking event. UK officials reportedly judged that his presence would not be “conducive to the public good,” with concerns raised that his statements about Israel could contribute to antisemitism and social tensions.
His nephew, Hasan Piker, also stated that his UK visa was revoked, claiming the decision was influenced by his own criticism of Israel. Both speakers were scheduled to appear at the Oxford Union on 6 June.
The Oxford Union president condemned the decision and said the organisation would explore options to ensure the debate still takes place, possibly online. She also criticised the timing of the cancellations, saying the events had been planned for months.
The move has sparked political debate in the UK over free speech and immigration restrictions, with commentators divided over whether the decision reflects legitimate security concerns or political censorship. Similar cases in recent months have seen other foreign speakers denied entry under UK public order rules.
