[69468] Diplomatic storm following documentation of Minister Ben-Gvir facing flotilla activists at Ashdod Port

Diplomatic tension and internal criticism surrounding the flotilla arrests

A public and diplomatic storm has erupted following the visit of the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, to Ashdod Port, where flotilla activists intercepted on their way to Gaza were being held. In footage distributed on social media, the minister is seen addressing the handcuffed and blindfolded detainees with statements such as "Welcome to Israel, we are the landlords," while labeling them "terror supporters" and calling on the Prime Minister to keep them in prolonged detention in prisons to create deterrence, according to 'News Online' reports.

Responses on the international level were not long in coming. According to 'News Israel IL' reports and the 'Barak Betesh' channel, the Italian government expressed great outrage over the minister's conduct. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and the Italian Foreign Minister clarified that "the treatment Israel is giving to the flotilla activists is unacceptable" and that they expect a formal apology. In 'Kav HaHadashot', it was reported that the tension even led to the summoning of the Israeli ambassador for a clarification talk in Italy.

On the other hand, the 'Abu Ali Express' channel, known for its positions identified with the right and security hawkishness, supported Minister Ben-Gvir's approach. The channel emphasized that "a long stay in an Israeli prison will help build deterrence" and claimed that an early release of the activists would only encourage the organization of further future flotillas.