George Galloway was deported from Cairo today despite wanting to return to Gaza to help members of a humanitarian convoy who have reportedly been arrested, a spokeswoman for the convoy said.
“Mr Galloway had been trying to return to Rafah after news broke that seven of the convoy members are said to have been arrested,” she said.
The incident began after Mr Galloway and his colleague, Ron McKay, arrived at the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt.
“As soon as they emerged on to Egyptian soil, both men were bundled into a van, refused exit and told that they were leaving the country," the spokeswoman said. “They were then driven off in a police convoy.”
The Viva Palestina aid convoy of 550 people from 17 countries, including Ireland, was caught up in violent scenes on Tuesday, which they blamed on “heavy-handed policing” of the group. The spokeswoman said 55 convoy members were injured and seven were arrested.
“Mr Galloway and Turkish MPs struck a deal with Egyptian authorities, part of which was that the seven detainees were released without charge," she claimed.
“On the enforced drive to Cairo, news came through of the imminent arrest of the seven but, when Mr Galloway demanded to return to Rafah, permission was repeatedly denied.”
Egypt's foreign ministry said Mr Galloway would not be allowed to enter the country again. Egypt has declared Mr Galloway persona non grata, accusing him of incitement after he criticised Cairo over delays in the convoy's entry into Gaza.
A spokesman for Britain's Foreign Office said: “We will continue to offer consular assistance to anyone who needs it.”
PA