Nicosia, Cyprus. The foreign ministry on Monday denied involvement in the cancellation of a planned visit by Hanamel Dorfman, chief of staff to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.
It rejected suggestions that it had advised against the visit, following reports that a French administrative measure could affect Dorfman’s ability to enter European countries.
Ministry response
Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, the ministry said Israeli intelligence authorities were already “more than well informed” on such matters and did not require guidance from Cyprus.
Eurojust comment
Asked whether a European arrest warrant or related measure concerning Dorfman had been circulated through European judicial channels, Eurojust declined to comment.
“If an EAW is pending for any person, it is privileged information that cannot be disclosed,” a Eurojust spokesperson told the Cyprus Mail.
“This is why I can’t give you any information about a possible outstanding EAW.”
Israeli media report
Israeli newspaper Maariv reported that Dorfman cancelled a planned visit to Cyprus earlier this month after Israeli security officials were warned that a French administrative measure could affect his ability to enter European countries.
According to the report, Dorfman had been due to take part in a rehabilitation programme for Israeli police officers involved in operations following the October 7, 2023 attacks who had experienced traumatic events.
Israeli authorities were reportedly advised that Dorfman could be refused entry and returned to Israel, leading to the cancellation of the visit.
Dorfman’s remarks
Dorfman criticised the reported French measure, calling it “an honour” that “an anti-Semitic country like France is trying to harm me because of my close relationship with Minister Ben Gvir.”
“This proves that I am on the right path,” he said. “France will continue to protest, and I will continue to implement Minister Ben Gvir’s policy and serve Israel’s national interests.”
