France has officially banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering its territory following widespread outrage over his treatment of pro-Palestinian flotilla activists intercepted by Israeli forces.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the decision on Saturday, stating that France would not tolerate intimidation or abuse directed at French and European citizens.
The move came after Ben-Gvir shared footage online showing detained activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla blindfolded and restrained at Israel’s Port of Ashdod. The flotilla had been intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters earlier this week while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.
Several countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Canada and the Netherlands, condemned the treatment of the activists and summoned Israeli ambassadors over the incident.
France said the ban was also linked to what it described as Ben-Gvir’s repeated inflammatory remarks and actions against Palestinians. Paris is now urging the European Union to consider broader sanctions against the far-right Israeli minister.
Meanwhile, organisers of the flotilla alleged that some detainees suffered physical and sexual abuse while in Israeli custody. According to the group, several activists reported assaults, humiliating strip searches and other forms of mistreatment during detention.
The United Nations said it was concerned by the allegations, while Israeli prison authorities denied all accusations, describing them as false and without evidence.
Some released French activists were later hospitalised in Turkiye with reported injuries including broken ribs and spinal fractures, according to organisers assisting in their evacuation.
.jpeg)
.jpeg "Sunayen kofofin aljanna guda takwas 8")
0 Comment about the Post: