Ashdod, Israel: Ben-Gvir flotilla activists’ footage drew international condemnation after Israel’s national security minister posted a video of himself mocking detained Gaza aid activists.
The activists belonged to the Global Sumud Flotilla, which carried food, baby formula and medical aid toward Gaza before Israeli naval forces intercepted it.
Israeli forces brought about 430 activists from more than 40 countries to Ashdod port after intercepting more than 50 boats.
The footage showed activists kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs. Ben-Gvir waved an Israeli flag and told them, “Welcome to Israel. We are the landlords.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel said the minister’s handling of the activists was “not in line with Israel’s values and norms.” He also ordered fast deportations.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the video a “disgraceful display” that harmed Israel. However, Ben-Gvir defended his conduct and said Israel had stopped being a “pushover.”
US Ambassador Mike Huckabee called Ben-Gvir’s actions “despicable.” UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the scenes were “totally disgraceful” and summoned Israel’s embassy.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called the treatment “abominable.” Australia, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Spain also condemned the incident and summoned Israeli envoys.
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Adalah, a rights group representing the detainees, said lawyers documented suspected broken ribs, breathing problems and injuries from rubber bullets. The group also reported Tasers and degrading treatment.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry said no live ammunition was used during the interception. It also said Israel would not allow any breach of what it called the lawful naval blockade on Gaza.
The Ben-Gvir flotilla activists’ dispute adds pressure on Israel after Western governments sanctioned Ben-Gvir last year over incitement against Palestinian communities.
