Flotilla storms over Israel: Ben-Gvir humiliates activists; Italy summons ambassador

Italy and Israel have erupted in diplomatic conflict following the release of a video of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, filmed at the port of Ashdod, walking among activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla detained by the Israeli navy. The footage shows several participants kneeling, handcuffed, and blindfolded, while the minister mocks them in front of the cameras and claims responsibility for the Israeli authorities' actions. In the video, Ben-Gvir refers to them as "supporters of terrorism" and addresses the detainees in provocative tones, in a scene that immediately sparked political and institutional reactions in Italy and abroad. The activists were stopped on their way to Gaza, and according to reported reports, the detention occurred in international waters, a circumstance Rome considers central to the diplomatic protest.

The sentencing of Mattarella, Meloni and Tajani

Italian President Sergio Mattarella called the incident "uncivilized treatment" inflicted on people illegally detained in international waters, describing it as an episode that "reaches the lowest level" by an Israeli government minister. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also took a very strong stance, deeming the images released by Ben-Gvir "unacceptable" and the treatment of the activists, who include Italian citizens, "inadmissible." The Italian government has called for the immediate release of the Italian nationals involved and demands an official apology for the treatment of the protesters, which it deems offensive to human dignity and contrary to requests already made by Rome.

The Farnesina summons the Israeli ambassador

Italy's reaction resulted in the Israeli ambassador being summoned to the Farnesina to request formal clarification on the incident. During the meeting, the Italian government's firm protest was reiterated, specifically regarding the fact that the citizens involved were not armed and had not manifested violent intentions. The Farnesina called for the immediate release and rapid return to Italy of all Italian nationals still held, maintaining constant contact with the Italian embassy in Tel Aviv and with Israeli authorities. Tajani spoke of a "red line" that had been crossed and implied that Rome would evaluate possible political initiatives, including at the European level, choosing the measures deemed most proportionate and effective.

Divisions in Israel and the distancing from Ben-Gvir

The case has also created a rift within the Israeli government. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar publicly criticized Ben-Gvir, accusing him of causing harm to the State of Israel with a "shameful spectacle" and declaring that his colleague "is not the face of Israel." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also distanced himself from the National Security Minister's actions, while asserting Israel's right to prevent the entry of flotillas headed for Gaza. Netanyahu declared that Ben-Gvir's behavior is inconsistent with the values ​​and norms of the State of Israel and instructed the relevant authorities to proceed with the expulsion of the activists as quickly as possible.

The transfer of activists and the return of Italians

The detained activists have been transferred to Israeli facilities, while the authorities plan to proceed with the deportations. Those who accept voluntary expulsion will be able to leave Israel promptly, while those who refuse will be subject to forced deportation. The Foreign Ministry is following the matter through consular channels, aiming to provide assistance to Italian citizens and facilitate their safe return. Tajani announced the return of the first Italians involved, including MP Carotenuto and journalist Mantovani, while attention remains high on the other Italians still being held.

International protests and accusations from the Flotilla

The incident has also provoked international reactions. France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and other countries have condemned the treatment of the activists and demanded explanations from Israel, while the Global Sumud Flotilla denounced "shameful and reprehensible" treatment. The organization described men and women forced into humiliating positions, tied up, and publicly exposed during Minister Ben-Gvir's visit to the port of Ashdod. The Union of Italian Jewish Communities also deemed the incident "unacceptable and serious," emphasizing that the minister's methods undermine Israel and its interests. Tensions remain high, with Rome demanding an apology, clarification, and the immediate return of the Italian citizens involved.