Protests erupt outside Icelandic government building over Yazan Tamimi’s deportation case

Protests are taking place outside the Icelandic government building today regarding the case of Yazan Tamimi, which is under discussion at the cabinet meeting. The Minister of Justice has postponed the decision on the family’s deportation after members of the Left Green Movement called for a discussion within the government.

Guðmundur Ingi Guðbrandsson, the chairman of the Left Green Movement and Minister of Social Affairs, expressed surprise over the planned deportation happening early Monday morning. He stated that the case involves a severely ill disabled child currently hospitalized, making the situation particularly sensitive.

Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson confirmed that the deportation has not been canceled despite its postponement, emphasizing that the government has examined the matter from all angles. He acknowledged the unusual nature of the request for a political discussion on the issue, pointing out that this year has witnessed a thousand deportations, with most individuals leaving voluntarily, while others were forcibly removed.

Justice Minister Guðrún Hafsteinsdóttir indicated that no decision was made regarding Yazan’s case during the cabinet meeting, clarifying that considerations are ongoing. She noted that legislation must be respected and that the police are obligated to enforce the requested deportation.

Finance Minister Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson supported the idea of postponing enforcement, asserting that specific factors must be considered when dealing with vulnerable children. He confirmed that the government maintains its commitment to upholding laws while weighing the unique circumstances surrounding Yazan’s situation.

The protests are drawing attention to the humanitarian aspects of the case, with activists urging the government to prioritize compassion and the well-being of the child involved.