Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir posted a video showing detained Global Sumud Flotilla activists tied, blindfolded, and kneeling [1].
The incident has sparked a diplomatic rift between Israel and Italy, as Rome views the treatment of the activists as a violation of basic human dignity and international norms [2].
In the footage recorded at the port of Ashdod, Ben Gvir is seen mocking the detainees while waving the Israeli flag [1]. During the recording, Ben Gvir said, "Benvenuti in Israele" [3]. The minister intended to project Israeli authority and labeled the activists as terrorists [2].
Italian leaders responded with immediate condemnation. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the treatment was "inaccettabile" [4]. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that Israel had crossed a red line [5].
Following the publication of the video on May 20, 2026 [1], Italian officials summoned Israeli Ambassador Meir Peled to Rome to demand explanations [1]. The Italian government described the treatment of the detainees as uncivil and at the lowest possible level [5].
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the actions, saying that Israel has the right to detain the activists and that the procedures remained within legal bounds [1]. The contrast between the official positions of the Israeli and Italian governments highlights a growing tension over the handling of international activists attempting to breach naval blockades.
Ben Gvir has remained defiant despite the international backlash, saying that those detained are terrorists who must be removed [4].
“"Inaccettabile."”
The diplomatic friction between Italy and Israel reflects a broader tension regarding the legal treatment of non-combatant activists. By filming the detainees in a state of submission, Ben Gvir shifted the event from a security operation to a political statement, prompting a response from Italy that prioritizes human rights norms over strategic alignment with the Israeli government.
