Italy and France have condemned far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for posting a video on social media showing him taunting detained pro-Palestinian activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.
The video, captioned "Welcome to Israel," shows Ben-Gvir encouraging security personnel as they push down a female activist shouting "Free, Free, Palestine." He is then seen waving an Israeli flag next to dozens of activists kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs, telling them, "We are the masters."
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the video "unacceptable" and demanded an apology, saying the treatment violates human dignity. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also condemned the actions, demanding respect for French nationals involved.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a rare rebuke, stating Ben-Gvir's actions were "not in line with Israel's values and norms." Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also condemned his cabinet colleague, accusing him of harming the state.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying 430 activists from more than 40 countries, was intercepted by Israeli naval commandos in international waters west of Cyprus on Monday. Israel dismissed the mission as a "PR stunt at the service of Hamas." Rights group Adalah is demanding the immediate release of all detainees.
