EU condemns Israel's detention of Gaza flotilla activists
The EU and several member states condemned Israel's treatment of activists detained during a Gaza flotilla. Video footage showing the activists in distress sparked outrage, with calls for their immediate release. European leaders emphasized the need for dignity and justice for those involved, including citizens from multiple countries.
- ▪The video posted by Israeli Minister Itamar Ben Gvir showed detained activists with hands bound, prompting widespread condemnation.
- ▪European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib stated that no one should be punished for defending humanity and called for the release of the activists.
- ▪Several European countries, including Italy, France, and Belgium, summoned Israeli ambassadors to express their indignation over the treatment of the detainees.
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France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot gives a press conference after a crisis meeting, in Paris, Monday, March 2, 2026. THIBAULT CAMUS / AP A video posted by Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir showing detained activists from a Gaza-bound flotilla, hands bound and foreheads on the ground, sparked condemnation from the EU and several European member states on Wednesday, May 20. "No one should be punished for defending humanity," said European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib. "Watch this video. These are not convicted criminals. These are activists trying to get bread to the hungry," Lahbib, whose brief is equality, preparedness and crisis management, wrote on X.
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