The United Kingdom has summoned Israel's most senior diplomat in Britain over an 'inflammatory' video of detainees posted by the country's security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir. The footage, which taunts international activists held after attempting to breach Israel's blockade of Gaza, drew widespread condemnation.
Diplomatic Summons
On Thursday, Israeli charge d'affaires Daniela Grudsky Ekstein was called to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The department stated the move reflected the UK's 'strong condemnation of his (Ben-Gvir's) conduct in taunting those involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla.'
'This behaviour violates the most basic standards of respect and dignity for people,' the FCDO added. Mrs Grudsky Ekstein serves as the highest-ranking Israeli diplomat in the UK as no ambassador is currently in place.
Concerns Over Detention Conditions
The British government also expressed concern over the detention conditions shown in the video, which appeared to depict a makeshift detention area at Ashdod on Israel's coast. The FCDO has demanded an explanation from Israeli authorities and is in contact with families of British nationals detained, offering consular support.
More than 400 people, including several British citizens and Catherine Connolly, sister of the Irish president, were detained after the attempt organized by the Global Sumud Flotilla. A similar bid in 2025 also resulted in Israel intercepting vessels and detaining activists.
International Reactions
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said on Wednesday she was 'truly appalled' by the footage, which showed activists with hands tied behind their backs and kneeling with heads touching the floor. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also rebuked Ben-Gvir, stating the video was 'not in line with Israel's values and norms.'
The UK sanctioned Ben-Gvir and fellow minister Bezalel Smotrich in June 2025 over 'repeated incitement of violence against Palestinian civilians.'
