Ben-Gvir taunts detained Gaza flotilla activists, calling them “terrorists” as mistreatment claims mount
Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir labelled Gaza flotilla activists “terrorists” while they were in custody, amid growing criticism over their reported mistreatment. At least 20 journalists were among the detainees, according to Reporters Without Borders.
- Israeli minister Ben-Gvir labelled flotilla activists “terrorists” during their arrest, drawing criticism.
- Over 20 foreign journalists were among the detainees, according to Reporters Without Borders.
- Activists continue to report mistreatment in custody, while Israel denies all abuse claims.
Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir personally appeared at the site where activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla were arrested on Thursday, publicly taunting detainees by pointing at them and labelling them “terrorists.”
The activists were brought ashore at Ashdod port after Israeli naval forces intercepted their convoy attempting to reach Gaza. The flotilla, comprising 42 boats and over 470 people from more than 50 countries, aimed to break Israel’s naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Ben-Gvir’s presence at the scene of the arrests drew swift condemnation after footage showed him berating the activists as they were processed into custody.
Minister’s conduct draws condemnation
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Ben-Gvir later visited Ketziot Prison in the Negev desert, where many of the detainees were being held, to ensure they were given “no special treatment.”
In public comments, he said, “I was proud that we treat flotilla activists as terror supporters. That’s how it works.”
The National Security Minister went on to say, “If any of them thought they would come here and be greeted with a red carpet and fanfare, they were mistaken.”
His statements came as international concern mounted over the treatment of detainees, including several well-known figures and over 20 foreign journalists.
Journalists among those detained
Reporters Without Borders confirmed that at least 20 journalists from various countries were on board the flotilla. Among them was Italian journalist Saverio Tommasi, who described humiliating conditions in detention after returning to Rome on Saturday.
Tommasi said medicines were withheld, detainees were mocked, and psychological abuse was widespread. He recounted that Greta Thunberg, also among the detainees, had her arms tied and was mocked with an Israeli flag placed next to her.
Another Italian journalist, Lorenzo D’Agostino, said detainees were kept awake through the night, threatened with dogs, and had laser sights from guns pointed at them “to scare us.” He also claimed personal belongings were stolen.
International response
Several governments lodged diplomatic protests. Greece submitted a formal complaint over what it termed the “unacceptable and inappropriate behaviour” of Ben-Gvir during the activists’ arrest. The Swedish and Turkish foreign ministries also intervened to demand assurances about detainee rights.
Colombia and Pakistan condemned the detentions and voiced concerns about violations of international law.
Demonstrations have taken place in cities around the world in support of the flotilla, calling for the release of those still held and an end to the blockade of Gaza.
Israel denies abuse claims
In a statement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry denied all allegations of abuse, calling them “brazen lies.” It stated that the legal rights of all detainees were upheld, and that voluntary deportation was offered to every activist. Those remaining in custody, it said, had chosen to pursue a formal deportation process.
Ben-Gvir, for his part, expressed pride in the conduct of Israeli prison officials. “Anyone who supports terrorism is a terrorist and deserves the conditions of terrorists,” he said. He also praised the Israel Prison Service and its chief, Kobi Yaakobi, for executing the policy.
Activists continue to report mistreatment
Despite Israel’s denials, many activists released over the weekend shared accounts of mistreatment.
Activist Paolo De Montis said detainees were kept kneeling for hours in prison vans with zip-tied hands and were subjected to verbal abuse. “You weren’t allowed to look them in the face,” he said. “When I did look up, a man came and slapped me on the back of the head.”
D’Agostino described constant stress and intimidation, including the use of dogs, shouting, and lasers trained on prisoners in confined cells.
Ceasefire talks amid flotilla fallout
The flotilla seizure took place just as US President Donald Trump pushed a new Gaza ceasefire initiative. Both Israel and Hamas have shown partial agreement to the terms, with negotiations expected to continue in Cairo from Monday, 7 October.
While the flotilla was largely symbolic in its aid payload, its interception has deepened global scrutiny over Israel’s conduct in Gaza and its treatment of international detainees.
