Tel Aviv: An international condemnation of Israel’s treatment of pro-Palestinian activists who were on board a Gaza-bound aid flotilla intercepted by Israeli naval forces. Two videos released by Ben Gvir’s office show activists who were aboard a flotilla aiming to deliver aid to Gaza being arrested by police handcuffed in a stressed position.
Furthermore, his actions also drew rare criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said they were “not in line with Israel’s values”.
In one video, a woman is seen shouting in English: “Free Palestine!” before being pushed to the ground, as officers are heard telling her, “Quiet, quiet”.
In another video, Israeli Security Minister is seen praising the soldiers, adding, “Welcome to Israel, we are the landlords here”. “They came with a lot of pride, like great heroes. Look at them now. Look, see how they look now. Not heroes and nothing at all. Terror supporters,” Ben Gvir says with the Israeli flag in hand, pointing to those detained.
Instead of strengthening Israel’s position internationally, the video opened cracks within the government itself. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar rebuked Ben-Gvir accused him of damaging the country’s image after what he described as careful diplomatic efforts by soldiers and officials.
Pressure builds on Israel:
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described Ben-Gvir’s conduct as “inadmissible” after reports confirmed Italian citizens, including a lawmaker and a journalist, were among those detained.
Turkey, flotilla’s departure point condemned abuse against activists and said efforts were underway to secure the release of its nationals.
Likewise, France, Canada, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands summoned Israeli diplomats over the incident.
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