A video released by Israeli minister Itamar Ben Gvir showed activists from the Gaza aid flotilla bound and forced to kneel inside a detention center at Ashdod port. Ben Gvir commented, “Welcome to Israel,” a remark widely criticized as provocative and degrading.
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Western governments, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Canada, condemned the mistreatment. The U.S. ambassador to Israel called Ben Gvir’s actions “despicable,” while Britain’s foreign secretary described the footage as “utterly shameful,” demanding urgent clarification from Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued an unusual rebuke, stating that Ben Gvir’s conduct did not reflect Israel’s values, while urging swift deportation of the activists. Rights group Adalah reported that detainees suffered serious injuries, including suspected rib fractures, breathing difficulties, and electric shocks, with three hospitalized.

The flotilla, known as the Global Freedom Flotilla, departed Turkey with over 50 vessels and 430 activists from more than 40 countries, carrying symbolic aid to Gaza. Israeli forces intercepted the ships in international waters, claiming the operation aimed to enforce the naval blockade and prevent propaganda for Hamas. Israel insisted no live ammunition was used.

Organizers accused Israel of illegal aggression, citing water cannons, rubber bullets, and deliberate ramming of vessels. The incident comes amid the ongoing Gaza war since October 2023, which has killed tens of thousands and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis. UN agencies warn of collapsing essential services, mass displacement, and worsening shortages of vital supplies.