Prime Minister Criticizes Deputy’s Actions

Videos have surfaced showing Israel’s national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, mocking pro-Palestinian flotilla activists. Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister, condemned the minister’s actions. Ben-Gvir’s behavior drew criticism for contributing to tensions.

Controversial Incidents

Ben-Gvir filmed himself among the 430 detained activists, waving an Israeli flag. He proclaimed, “Welcome to Israel, we are the landlords.” One detained activist shouted “Free Palestine” before being forced to the ground. Activists were seen kneeling with hands tied, heads on the floor.

Another video showed Ben-Gvir taunting the activists, expressing his desire to imprison them for long periods. The flotilla, intercepted by the Israeli navy, was brought to the port of Ashdod.

Prime Minister’s Stance

Netanyahu defended intercepting the flotilla, citing security concerns. However, he disagreed with Ben-Gvir’s handling of the activists, emphasizing that it violated Israel’s principles.

International Reaction

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized Ben-Gvir, accusing him of damaging the country’s image. Ben-Gvir rebuffed these claims, asserting Israel no longer tolerates support for terrorism.

Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s U.S. ambassador, stated Ben-Gvir’s actions misrepresented the government’s stance and harmed diplomatic efforts. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, also criticized Ben-Gvir’s conduct, labeling the flotilla a “stupid stunt.”

Diplomatic Strain

Italy’s Prime Minister Georgia Meloni called Ben-Gvir’s video unacceptable, summoning the Israeli ambassador in Rome to demand an apology. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed these sentiments, emphasizing respect for the flotilla participants.

Legal Advocacy Response

Adalah, a legal advocacy group, accused Israeli authorities of systematic mistreatment of flotilla activists. They pointed to similar historical instances and called for international intervention to ensure activists’ safety.

Boarding of Flotilla Boats

Israeli forces stopped the flotilla boats which aimed to contest Israel’s Gaza blockade. Organizers claimed boats were fired upon, but Israel denied using live ammunition, asserting nonlethal warnings were used.

Israel describes the flotilla as a publicity act supporting Hamas, with minimal aid intended for Gaza. The flotilla’s vessels originated in Turkey.