Several European Union countries have summoned Israeli ambassadors in protest over the treatment of activists who were detained by Israel after attempting to breach its naval blockade of Gaza in a flotilla. Belgium, the Netherlands, and Italy took diplomatic action following the incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation.
European Leaders Express Outrage
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten described Israel's handling of the activists as "dehumanizing," while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani demanded an apology, stating that the protesters "are subjected to treatment that violates their dignity." Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot called images of the detained activists, including Belgian citizens, "deeply disturbing" and criticized "a government minister broadcasting their humiliation on social media," referring to posts by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Ben-Gvir's Videos Spark Controversy
The videos posted by Ben-Gvir have drawn outrage in European countries whose citizens were part of the flotilla, marking a new source of tension between some European states and Israel. The controversy also sparked debate within Israel itself.
Netanyahu's Response
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement acknowledging Israel's right to prevent provocative flotillas but criticizing Ben-Gvir's approach. "Israel has every right to prevent provocative flotillas," he said. However, he added, "the way that Minister Ben Gvir dealt with the flotilla activists is not in line with Israel’s values and norms." Netanyahu instructed relevant authorities to "deport the provocateurs as soon as possible."
Internal Criticism
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned Ben-Gvir's actions, saying he had "undone tremendous, professional, and successful efforts made by so many people — from IDF soldiers to Foreign Ministry staff and many others" in a "disgraceful display." Sa’ar expressed his views in a post on social media platform X.
The incident has further strained relations between Israel and some European nations, highlighting ongoing tensions over the Gaza blockade and the treatment of activists. The flotilla aimed to challenge the naval restrictions imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip, a territory governed by Hamas.
