Italy Calls for Sanctions Against Israeli Minister Over Treatment of Humanitarian Flotilla
Italy Demands EU Action Against Israeli Minister
Italy has called on the European Union to impose sanctions on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, following the release of a video showing Israeli forces detaining and humiliating activists from the "Freedom Flotilla" in international waters.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani made the request on social media platform X, citing "unacceptable acts" committed against the humanitarian flotilla, including the detention of activists in international waters and the harassment and humiliation they suffered in clear violation of basic human rights.
The video, shared by Ben Gvir on X, shows activists kneeling on the ground with their hands cuffed behind their backs and their heads bowed in submission. The images have sparked widespread international condemnation.
Ben Gvir posted the clip on X with the caption "Welcome to Israel." The footage shows dozens of activists on a naval vessel, followed by scenes of them being detained in a holding facility where Ben Gvir is seen standing in front of one of them, waving the Israeli flag and shouting "Long live Israel."
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for action from the international community, with Italy leading the charge in demanding EU sanctions against Ben Gvir.
