In December 2025, MP Iqra Khalid joined a Canadian parliamentary delegation travelling across the Middle East to meet with humanitarian organizations, refugees, community leaders, and local advocates to better understand the realities facing civilians affected by ongoing conflict in the region.
As part of the visit, the delegation attempted to enter the West Bank through the Allenby Crossing between Jordan and the Israeli-controlled West Bank. Despite previously approved travel authorizations, the delegation was denied entry without a clear explanation. During the incident, members of the delegation were subjected to additional questioning and asked to sign documentation indicating they posed security risks before being turned away.
Reflecting on the experience, MP Khalid emphasized the importance of accountability, transparency, and respect for human dignity in all international engagements.
“If elected officials and international delegations can face these kinds of barriers, it raises important questions about the realities many civilians encounter every day,” said MP Khalid. “These experiences reinforce why humanitarian access, accountability, and human rights must remain at the centre of international discussions.”
Despite the setback, the delegation continued meetings and humanitarian engagements throughout the region. MP Khalid met with refugees, humanitarian workers, and aid organizations supporting families displaced by violence and instability. Discussions focused on humanitarian access, protection of civilians, mental health supports, food insecurity, and the long-term impact conflict continues to have on families and children.
The visit also highlighted the extraordinary work of frontline humanitarian organizations providing medical assistance, shelter, education, and emergency support under extremely difficult conditions.
“Humanitarian workers continue to serve vulnerable families with incredible courage and compassion,” said MP Khalid. “Their commitment to preserving dignity and hope in the face of immense hardship is deeply inspiring.”
Throughout the visit, conversations focused on the importance of peacebuilding, protecting human rights, and strengthening international cooperation to support communities affected by conflict and displacement.
The delegation formed part of broader parliamentary efforts to engage directly with communities and organizations working to advance humanitarian relief, stability, and long-term peace across the region.
