Yvette Cooper has strongly condemned the release of videos featuring detained British activists by Israel's national security minister, describing the footage as 'appalling'. The Foreign Office is in contact with the families of British nationals involved.
Detention after flotilla attempt
More than 400 individuals, including several British citizens and the sister of Ireland's president, were detained after participating in an aid flotilla attempting to breach Israel's blockade of Gaza. The flotilla, organised by the Global Sumud Flotilla, set sail from southern Turkey and mirrors a similar attempt in 2025 that also saw Israeli forces intercept vessels and detain those on board.
Cooper's response
In a statement on X, Ms Cooper said: 'We are in touch with the families of a number of British nationals involved to provide them with consular support.' She also condemned videos posted by Israeli national security minister Iamar Ben-Gvir, which showed activists with their hands tied behind their backs and kneeling with heads touching the floor in a makeshift detention area at Ashdod.
'They came as big heroes,' Ben-Gvir says in the video while carrying a large Israeli flag. 'Look at them now. See how they look now, not heroes and not anything.'
Ms Cooper said she was 'truly appalled' by the footage, adding: 'This violates the most basic standards of respect and dignity in the way people should be treated.' She continued: 'We have demanded an explanation from the Israeli authorities and made clear their obligations to protect the rights of our citizens and all those involved.'
International condemnation
Mr Ben-Gvir's videos drew condemnation from the international community and a rebuke from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said it was 'not in line with Israel's values and norms'. The UK had previously sanctioned Mr Ben-Gvir and fellow minister Bezalel Smotrich in June 2025 over their 'repeated incitement of violence against Palestinian civilians'.
Context of the flotilla
The flotilla represented a renewed attempt to deliver vital assistance to war-shattered Gaza. Organisers stated their objective was to break Israel's ongoing blockade by providing humanitarian supplies. This comes as aid bodies continue to report severe shortages, despite a US-brokered ceasefire in place since October 2025, which included guarantees for increased aid. Israel maintains that its naval blockade on Gaza is entirely lawful.
