Israel has cancelled the visas of 27 French lawmakers and local officials who were planning to visit Israel and the Palestinian territories. The group, which included members of France's left-wing ecologist and communist parties, said the trip was meant to promote international cooperation and peace. The lawmakers have described the move as 'collective punishment' and have urged French president Macron to respond and ensure Israel reverses its decision. This is not the first time Israel has barred foreign politicians from visiting, as earlier this month two British MPs were deported and in February two left-wing European parliament members were also barred.