Israel flotilla video sparks wider diplomatic row across Europe
Several European governments have condemned Israel after footage showed detained Gaza flotilla activists bound and forced to kneel following their arrest by Israeli forces.
The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a convoy carrying aid to Gaza that sailed from Turkey last week in an attempt to challenge Israel’s blockade of the territory.
The controversy began after Israeli National Security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared a video online showing detainees kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs. The footage triggered strong reactions across Europe and beyond.
Belgian Foreign minister Maxime Prevot called the scenes “unacceptable” and summoned Israel’s ambassador, noting that Belgian citizens were among those detained.
France, Spain, the Netherlands, Greece, Ireland and Italy also criticised the treatment of the activists. Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni demanded the immediate release of Italian citizens and described the treatment as a violation of human dignity.
British foreign secretary Yvette Cooper said she was “truly appalled” by the footage, while Australia, New Zealand and South Korea also condemned Israel’s actions.
Rights group Adalah said detainees reported physical and psychological abuse, including beatings, stress positions and sexual humiliation. Lawyers said several activists suffered injuries, including suspected broken ribs.
Israel intercepted the flotilla in international waters on Tuesday and brought more than 400 activists from around 40 countries to Ashdod port.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised Ben-Gvir’s actions, saying the treatment shown in the video “is not in line with Israel’s values and norms”. Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar also accused Ben-Gvir of damaging Israel’s international reputation.
Ben-Gvir defended his actions, saying Israel was “no longer a pushover”.
The flotilla was the latest international effort to deliver aid to Gaza, where severe shortages of food, medicine and clean water continue during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir © Ilia YEFIMOVICH / AFP