Israel has deported hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists who were detained after an aid flotilla bound for Gaza was intercepted. This action followed widespread international condemnation triggered by a video released by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. The footage showed the minister taunting activists who were restrained and kneeling, drawing sharp criticism from human rights organizations and foreign governments.
The incident caused significant controversy inside Israel as well, prompting a rare public response from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He acknowledged that Ben Gvir’s conduct harmed Israel’s international reputation, exposing divisions within the government regarding how the flotilla participants were treated. The situation has also revived discussions about the Gaza blockade and the procedures used by Israeli security forces during maritime interceptions.