10 nations summon Israeli envoys over minister’s flotilla abuse video

A diplomatic storm has erupted against Israel after a video emerged showing National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir overseeing the mistreatment of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission attempting to break the Gaza blockade. Ten countries — including Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Poland, the Netherlands, Portugal, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada — have summoned Israeli ambassadors or chargés d’affaires to register formal protests.

European outrage and demands

Italy’s foreign ministry summoned the Israeli ambassador to demand the release of Italian nationals still held. Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called the treatment “monstrous, inhumane, and disgraceful.” France expressed “indignation” and requested explanations. Belgium’s foreign minister described the footage as “deeply disturbing” and demanded immediate release of detainees. Poland’s Radoslaw Sikorski said his government would demand an apology over “extremely inappropriate conduct” by a cabinet minister. The Netherlands and Portugal also lodged strong protests.

Wider international condemnation

New Zealand, which had already imposed a travel ban on Ben-Gvir last year for undermining the two-state solution, summoned the Israeli ambassador. Australia’s foreign minister Penny Wong said the ambassador was called to the Department of Foreign Affairs to reinforce Canberra’s displeasure. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney denounced Israel’s “abominable” treatment of activists, demanding assurances for Canadians’ safety. Israeli forces attacked the flotilla in international waters on Monday, detaining 428 people from 44 countries.