France has imposed a ban on Israel's national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, citing his 'unspeakable' behaviour towards activists from a flotilla to Gaza who were detained by Israeli police. The decision was announced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot in a post on X, stating: 'As of today, Itamar Ben-Gvir is banned from entering French territory. This decision follows his unspeakable actions toward French and European citizens who were passengers on the Global Sumud Flotilla.'
French Condemnation and Call for EU Action
Barrot emphasised that France cannot tolerate French nationals being threatened, intimidated, or brutalised in such a manner, especially by a public official. He called on the European Union to also impose sanctions on Ben-Gvir. The flotilla, consisting of 50 boats, was intercepted in international waters approximately 250 miles off the coast of Israel. Detained activists have accused Israeli forces of mistreatment, including beatings, use of tasers, and attack dogs.
Video Footage Sparks Global Outrage
This week, Ben-Gvir sparked widespread condemnation after promoting a video showing him taunting detained flotilla activists. In one clip, he is seen waving a large Israeli flag over hunched-over detainees with their hands bound. In another, he taunts a kneeling detainee with zip-tied wrists, yelling 'Am Yisrael Chai' — Hebrew for 'The nation of Israel lives.' A third clip shows detainees with their foreheads to the floor of an outdoor pen as the Israeli national anthem plays, surrounded by armed guards.
International and Domestic Criticism
Foreign leaders, including Israeli coalition partner Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, condemned Ben-Gvir's treatment of the approximately 430 flotilla detainees. The French minister also criticised the flotilla's approach, stating: 'We disapprove of this flotilla's approach, which produces no useful effect and places an additional burden on diplomatic and consular services.'
Poland Also Bans Ben-Gvir
Poland has similarly barred Ben-Gvir, announcing a five-year ban on Thursday. Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski posted: 'In the democratic world we do not abuse and gloat over people in custody.' The ban reflects growing international disapproval of Ben-Gvir's actions.
