Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir recently shared a video in which he ridiculed activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla who had been detained. The footage depicted the activists being forced to kneel on the ground with their hands restrained, all while the Israeli national anthem played through loudspeakers.
Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has instructed the Australian ambassador in Israel to express concern over the situation, emphasizing the need for the release of the detained Australians and ensuring that no detainees are mistreated, in accordance with international standards.
In the video, captioned “welcome to Israel,” Ben-Gvir is seen mocking the activists as they are pushed and dragged by Israeli forces. The incident occurred as hundreds of activists attempted to breach Israel’s nearly two-decade-long maritime blockade of Gaza, with Israeli forces intercepting them in the Mediterranean Sea near Cyprus.
Among those detained were 11 Australians, who were subsequently taken to Israel and arrived at Ashdod port on Wednesday. Wong condemned the video, describing it as “shocking and unacceptable,” and reiterated Australia’s stance against the actions of Ben-Gvir, who has already faced sanctions from Australia. She stated that the treatment of the detained individuals by Israeli authorities is degrading.
The situation has also drawn criticism from within Israel’s own government. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar publicly rebuked Ben-Gvir, asserting that such conduct harms Israel’s image and undermines the efforts of various state institutions. He expressed frustration over the negative impact of Ben-Gvir’s actions on diplomatic relations.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also criticized the incident, deeming the treatment of the activists as “unacceptable” and a violation of human dignity. She announced that the Italian government would take immediate steps to secure the release of its citizens involved and called for an apology regarding their mistreatment. Furthermore, she indicated that Israel’s ambassador in Rome would be summoned for an explanation.
Lawyers from the Adalah Center, representing the activists, noted that this incident reflects a troubling pattern of behavior from Ben-Gvir, who has previously targeted activists in similar fashion. They condemned Israel’s actions as a continuation of abuse and humiliation against those opposing its policies towards Palestinians. The group has documented multiple instances of violent treatment of activists in past flotillas, for which Israel has not been held accountable.
The Israeli government, however, has dismissed the Global Sumud Flotilla participants as provocateurs aligned with Hamas, claiming their mission lacks genuine humanitarian intent. Activists argue that their goal is to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the harsh policies imposed by the Israeli government on the Palestinian population. Israel maintains that its maritime blockade is lawful for national security purposes, while flotilla participants liken the interception of their vessels in international waters to acts of piracy.
Amid these developments, the ABC has sought comments from Foreign Minister Wong regarding Australia’s position on the legality of Israel’s blockade and the actions taken during the interceptions, but has yet to receive a specific response. A spokesperson for Wong confirmed ongoing discussions with Israeli authorities concerning the welfare of the detained Australians and indicated plans for consular visits. The Australian government is pushing for the prompt release of all detained citizens and is ensuring that any detainees are treated humanely, in line with international norms.
The spokesperson also mentioned that before departing, the Australians involved in the flotilla received a briefing from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which strongly advised against participation due to safety concerns.
