Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir released a video showing the situation after the activists of the "Sumud" flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid to Palestine, were detained. The video showing the activists being forced to kneel and being made to listen to the Israeli national anthem has sparked international criticism became the cause.
The video depicts the detained activists being taken away with their hands tied behind their backs, then forced to kneel on a concrete area and to bow their heads to the ground. It also shows the Israeli national anthem being played for them.
In the background of the footage, Ben-Gvir can be heard telling the guards, "don't pay attention to their screams." The minister wrote under the video: "This is how we welcome supporters of terrorism."
This incident was criticized not only by European states but also by Israeli officials. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the country has the right to prevent "provocative flotillas" from entering its territorial waters, he emphasized that Ben-Gvir's actions were "not in line with Israeli values and norms."
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar accused Ben-Gvir of "harming the state through a shameful show."
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed being "horrified" by the video, stating that it is contrary to human dignity and respect.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni demanded a formal apology from Israel for the humiliation of the activists, including Italian citizens. It was also announced that the Italian Foreign Ministry would summon the Israeli ambassador.
Canada and the Netherlands also indicated their intention to summon the Israeli ambassadors.
