Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, is facing international criticism after posting a video showing detained activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla being mocked and restrained following their interception by Israeli forces.
The footage, shared online with the caption “Welcome to Israel,” showed activists kneeling on the ground with their hands zip-tied behind their backs while Israel’s national anthem played through loudspeakers. Some detainees were also seen being pushed and dragged by security personnel.
Among those detained were 11 Australians, after Israeli naval forces intercepted the Gaza-bound flotilla in the Mediterranean Sea near Cyprus. The activists had attempted to challenge Israel’s long-running maritime blockade on Gaza, saying their mission aimed to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.
Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, condemned the treatment shown in the video, calling it “shocking and unacceptable.” She said Australia had asked its ambassador in Israel to seek the immediate release of the detained Australians and to ensure all detainees are treated humanely under international law.
The video also sparked criticism inside Israel’s own government. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar accused Ben-Gvir of damaging Israel’s international image, saying, “You are not the face of Israel.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also condemned the incident, describing the treatment of activists as a violation of human dignity. Italy said it was taking urgent diplomatic steps to secure the release of its citizens involved in the flotilla.
Legal representatives from the Adalah Center, which is assisting the detainees, accused Israel of carrying out “abuse and humiliation” against activists intercepted in international waters. The group argued that previous flotilla participants had also reported mistreatment by Israeli authorities.
Israel has defended its naval blockade of Gaza as necessary for national security, while dismissing the flotilla participants as provocateurs allegedly supporting Hamas — accusations the activists deny. Organizers insist the mission was peaceful and intended to highlight worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
.jpeg)
.jpeg "Sunayen kofofin aljanna guda takwas 8")
0 Comment about the Post: