Israel’s Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced criticism from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and international backlash after releasing videos of detained flotilla activists. These activists attempted to breach Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Netanyahu stated that while Israel can stop ‘provocative flotillas of Hamas supporters,’ Ben-Gvir’s actions didn’t align with Israel’s values.
Ben-Gvir released videos showing around 430 detainees, with some kneeling and bound. Waving an Israeli flag, he taunted the activists, one of whom shouted ‘Free Palestine’ before security pushed them to the ground. Ben-Gvir asked Netanyahu to imprison them, but Netanyahu ordered their quick deportation.
Critics included Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who condemned Ben-Gvir publicly, and Adalah, a legal advocacy group, which accused Israeli authorities of ‘abuse and humiliation’ against activists. Adalah’s lawyer Suhad Bishara reported two activists were hospitalized after being shot with rubber bullets.
International reactions were swift. The UK Foreign Secretary and Italy condemned the treatment as a violation of dignity. Italy summoned Israel’s ambassador, and Canada did the same, demanding explanations. Turkey and Greece also condemned the actions.
Hamas criticized Ben-Gvir for showcasing ‘scenes of abuse,’ claiming these actions demonstrated moral failings. Meanwhile, Israeli forces intercepted flotilla boats aimed to challenge the blockade, claiming no live ammunition was fired despite flotilla organizers’ claims of damage.
The blockade on Gaza began in 2007 after Hamas took control. Critics argue it is collective punishment, while Israel insists it prevents Hamas from gaining weapons. Recent conflicts intensified the blockade, with heavy casualties and restricted movement exacerbating the situation.