Travel Restrictions
France has banned Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering its territory. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the ban on Saturday. Barrot stated the ban reflects growing anger among governments regarding the treatment of an activist flotilla heading to Gaza.
Minister's Actions
The ban follows the release of a video on Ben-Gvir's X account showing him taunting pro-Palestinian activists aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The activists' vessel was intercepted by Israeli security forces in international waters as it attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The video shows activists kneeling with their foreheads on the ground and their hands tied. Ben-Gvir is seen walking among the bound activists with supporters, waving an Israeli flag.
International Response
The video, captioned "That's how we welcome the terrorism supporters. Welcome to Israel," prompted widespread criticism. France, Spain and Italy are pushing for EU sanctions on Ben-Gvir. Barrot stated on X that he and his Italian counterpart are asking the European Union to take sanctions against Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Allegations of Abuse
The Global Sumud Flotilla stated on Friday that some of the detained activists were subjected to physical and sexual abuse. Israel’s prison service denied these allegations. Germany said some of its nationals who were part of the flotilla and detained in Israel had been injured. Germany added that some of the "allegations in the air are serious."
Domestic Rebuke
Ben-Gvir's conduct was rebuked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The activists have since been deported from Israel. The minister oversees Israel's police force.
Looking Ahead
The EU will consider France and Italy's request for sanctions against Ben-Gvir. Some of the activists allege they had been physically assaulted in detention.
