Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Several Western governments sharply criticized Israel on Wednesday after footage emerged showing detained Gaza flotilla activists kneeling on the ground with their hands restrained following the interception of an aid vessel bound for Gaza.
Spain, Ireland, Italy and Canada all reacted publicly after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir circulated footage of the detainees online, triggering accusations of humiliation and mistreatment.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares described the treatment shown in the video as “monstrous, disgraceful and inhumane,” according to remarks made during a visit to Berlin. Madrid also summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires in protest over the incident.
The footage appeared to show dozens of activists kneeling with their foreheads lowered to the ground while their hands were zip-tied behind their backs after Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla attempting to reach Gaza.
Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee said she was “appalled and shocked” by the images and demanded the immediate release of what she called “illegally detained” activists, including Irish citizens aboard the vessel.
Among those detained was reported to be a sister of Irish President Catherine Connolly, further intensifying political reaction in Dublin.
Canada also issued a formal diplomatic response. Foreign Minister Anita Anand said the footage was “deeply troubling and absolutely unacceptable,” adding that Canadian officials had been instructed to summon the Israeli ambassador for explanations regarding the treatment of civilians aboard the flotilla.
Italy joined the growing backlash later Wednesday, summoning Israel’s ambassador after criticism mounted over Ben-Gvir’s public handling of the detainees and the release of the footage online.
The incident comes amid escalating international scrutiny of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and growing tensions between the Israeli government and several Western allies over humanitarian access to the enclave.
Israel has repeatedly defended its naval blockade around Gaza as a security measure aimed at preventing weapons smuggling to Hamas. Pro-Palestinian activists behind flotilla missions argue they are attempting to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge restrictions on access to the territory.
The latest confrontation appears to have widened diplomatic friction between Israel and parts of Europe at a time when criticism of the war and conditions inside Gaza continues to intensify internationally.
