The international community has expressed mounting criticism toward Israel following the release of a controversial video by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The footage depicts detained activists from a Gaza aid flotilla kneeling with their hands bound after the interception of aid vessels in international waters.
In the video, which Ben-Gvir shared on the social media platform X, the far-right minister is seen taunting the detainees, dismissing their attempts to provide humanitarian aid. Addressing the camera, Ben-Gvir stated, "They came with much pride, as big heroes. Look, see how they look now… Not heroes and not anything, terror supporters." He further urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to keep the activists in "terrorists' prisons," asserting that this is how they "should look."
The footage has triggered a wave of diplomatic condemnation from various global leaders and institutions, highlighting growing tensions over the treatment of humanitarian workers.
Global Diplomatic Backlash
European Union: European Council President Antonio Costa described the treatment of the flotilla members as "completely unacceptable" and expressed that he was "appalled" by the minister's behavior, calling for the immediate release of the detainees.
France: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned the Israeli ambassador to address the incident. While Barrot noted his opposition to the flotilla's approach, he emphasized that the actions of Minister Ben-Gvir were "unacceptable" and demanded that French citizens be treated with respect and freed promptly.
Australia: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the degrading treatment of the activists. Wong, noting that Australia has already sanctioned Ben-Gvir, described the images as "shocking and unacceptable," condemning both the minister's actions and those of the Israeli authorities.
Spain: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that Spain would not tolerate the mistreatment of its citizens. In a move to increase pressure, Sanchez announced that his government would push for the current ban on Ben-Gvir entering Spain to be urgently extended across the entire European Union.
As diplomatic pressure mounts, the incident underscores the volatile nature of current maritime aid efforts and the escalating friction between the Israeli government's hardline ministers and the international community.
Reference(s):
Outrage grows after Israeli minister taunts Gaza flotilla activists
cgtn.com
