France has officially prohibited Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right national security minister, from entering its territory due to his “unspeakable” conduct towards activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla who were detained by his police force. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced this decision, stating, “As of today, Itamar Ben-Gvir is banned from entering French territory.
This action is a response to his unacceptable behaviour towards French and European citizens who were passengers on the flotilla. “We cannot tolerate threats, intimidation, or brutality directed at French nationals, particularly when perpetrated by a public official.” Minister Barrot said. He further urged the European Union to consider imposing sanctions on Ben-Gvir.
This week, the Israeli far-right minister elicited widespread international criticism after sharing a video in which he appeared to mock the detained activists. One segment shows him waving a large Israeli flag over detainees who appear to be restrained. In another clip, he taunts a kneeling detainee with zip-tied wrists, shouting “Am Yisrael Chai,” which translates to “The nation of Israel lives.” A further video depicts detainees lying face down on the ground while the Israeli national anthem plays, surrounded by armed guards. This treatment of the approximately 430 flotilla detainees has drawn condemnation from various foreign leaders. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned his coalition partner’s actions.
Itamar Ben-Gvir is the leader of Otzma Yehudit (“Jewish Power”), a far-right political party in Israel known for its Kahanist ideology and racist anti-Arab views. In the 2022 legislative elections, the party secured six seats and is a member of Israel’s current government. Ben-Gvir, who resides in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has a longstanding history of activism with anti-Arab sentiments. Ben-Gvir’s actions and polarising rhetoric resulted in multiple indictments and at least eight convictions, which include offences such as incitement to racism and involvement with a designated terrorist organisation, the now-illegal Kach political party.
In his recent statement, the French minister expressed criticism toward the flotilla activists who attempted to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. He remarked, “We disapprove of this flotilla’s approach, which yields no constructive outcomes and imposes additional burdens on diplomatic and consular services.”
The flotilla, comprising 50 vessels, was intercepted in international waters approximately 250 miles off the Israeli coast. The detained activists alleged instances of mistreatment by Israeli forces, including reports of beatings, the use of tasers, and the deployment of attack dogs.
Furthermore, Poland has enacted a five-year ban on Ben-Gvir, with Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski stating, “In the democratic world, we do not abuse and gloat over people in custody.”
This article used information from The Associated Press.
