Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a rare rebuke to his far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, after the minister released videos taunting international activists detained in Israel. The activists were part of a flotilla attempting to breach Israel's blockade of Gaza. In the footage, Ben-Gvir is seen walking among the handcuffed detainees, waving an Israeli flag and telling them they should be jailed.
Netanyahu's Response
Netanyahu stated that Ben-Gvir's actions were 'not in line with Israel's values and norms' and instructed that the approximately 430 detainees be deported as soon as possible. The prime minister's office emphasized that the treatment of the activists should reflect Israel's commitment to international law and human rights.
International Condemnation
The incident sparked widespread global condemnation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar publicly criticised Ben-Gvir, while the legal advocacy group Adalah accused Israeli authorities of abuse, reporting that at least two activists were hospitalised after being shot with rubber bullets. The UK, Italy, Canada, Turkey, and Greece condemned the treatment of activists and summoned Israeli ambassadors to protest Ben-Gvir's 'unacceptable' and 'disgraceful' display.
Ben-Gvir's video has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations and foreign governments, with many calling for an investigation into the treatment of detainees. The flotilla had been attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, which has been under an Israeli-led blockade since 2007.
