Italy announced Monday it has opened an investigation against Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over his mistreatment of activists from the “Global Freedom Flotilla” in May, who sought to break the blockade on Gaza with a humanitarian mission.  

A judicial source confirmed that Italian prosecutors placed Ben-Gvir under investigation for his treatment of the activists. Italy’s official news agency ANSA reported that the Rome prosecutor’s office formally opened a case against him for abuse and mocking the activists, who were shown kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs at Ashdod port.  

The controversy erupted after Ben-Gvir posted video footage in May revealing the harsh treatment of flotilla activists detained while attempting to sail toward Gaza. The images sparked widespread international condemnation, with several countries—including Spain, Canada, the Netherlands, France, Italy, and Belgium—summoning Israeli ambassadors to protest.  

Last Friday, France also opened an investigation into allegations of torture and war crimes committed by Israel against French activists who participated in the flotilla. On May 18, Israel intercepted the flotilla of about 50 boats carrying 428 activists from 44 countries in international waters of the Mediterranean, detaining all participants before later releasing them.