Israel hands Gilbert a lifetime ban from entering Gaza

Mads Gilbert treating injured child at Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza

Mads Gilbert, a doctor who worked in the Gaza Strip during the latest Israeli assault, has been banned from re-entering the Strip by Israeli authorities who cited security reasons.

The 67-year-old Norwegian has travelled to and from Gaza to treat Palestinians for several years, working in Shifa hospital during the most recent war.

During his stay, he highlighted the plight of the Palestinians living under Israel's bombardment.

In October, while he was trying to re-enter the Strip, the head physician specialising in anaesthesiology at University Hospital of North Norway was stopped by Israeli officials.

Gilbert, who has worked in areas of conflict for over 30 years, said: "When we came back to the Erez border station, the Israeli soldiers told me that I could not go in to Gaza."

According to an email from the Norwegian embassy in Tel Aviv, the Israeli government said it banned Gilbert for security reasons.

Norway's Secretary of State, Bård Glad Pedersen, said: "From the Norwegian perspective, we have... asked Israel to change their decision. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is still difficult and there is a need for all health workers."

Gilbert believes the decision is connected to his critical comments against Israel.