Israel is facing a wave of international condemnation after its National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, released a video showing detained Gaza flotilla activists in a degrading state following the interception of aid vessels in international waters.
The footage, shared by the far-right minister on the social media platform X, depicts activists kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs. In the video, Ben-Gvir is seen taunting the detainees, dismissing their efforts as a facade of heroism.
"They came with much pride, as big heroes. Look, see how they look now," Ben-Gvir says in the clip. He further labeled the activists as "terror supporters" and urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to keep them in "terrorists' prisons," stating that this is "how it should look."
The video has sparked swift and sharp reactions from several global powers and international bodies, who have characterized the treatment of the activists as a violation of human dignity.
European Union and France
European Council President Antonio Costa expressed that he was "appalled" by the treatment of the aid flotilla members, describing the behavior as "completely unacceptable" and calling for their immediate release. Similarly, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned the Israeli ambassador, calling the actions unacceptable and emphasizing that French citizens must be treated with respect and freed promptly.
Australia
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the footage as "shocking and unacceptable." Wong, noting that Australia has previously sanctioned Ben-Gvir, strongly criticized the "degrading actions of Israeli authorities towards those detained."
Spain
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that Spain "will not tolerate anyone mistreating our citizens." In a more stringent response, Sanchez announced that his government would push for Spain's existing ban on Ben-Gvir entering the country to be urgently extended across the entire European Union.
The incident continues to strain diplomatic ties, as nations call for the adherence to international standards of treatment for detainees and the swift release of the aid workers.
Reference(s):
Outrage grows after Israeli minister taunts Gaza flotilla activists
cgtn.com
