Palestine weekly wrap: Ben-Gvir’s abuse of flotilla detainees causes outcry
Summary
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was filmed mistreating foreign activists detained after trying to break the Gaza blockade by sea. The treatment of detainees caused international criticism, with several countries condemning Israel and France banning Ben-Gvir from entry. Meanwhile, Israeli officials pushed forward controversial settlement and demolition plans in the occupied West Bank amid rising tensions.Key Facts
- Ben-Gvir was seen gloating over foreign activists forced to kneel with bound arms after their flotilla was stopped in international waters.
- At least 15 detained activists reportedly experienced sexual assault.
- France banned Ben-Gvir from entering its country in response.
- More than a dozen countries, including Italy, Canada, Spain, Ireland, Germany, and South Korea, condemned Israel or summoned Israeli diplomats.
- US Ambassador Mike Huckabee criticized Ben-Gvir’s actions as damaging to Israel’s dignity.
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog publicly condemned abuse of prisoners and settler violence.
- Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich ordered demolition orders for Khan al-Ahmar, a Bedouin village in the West Bank, seen as retaliation for an ICC arrest warrant request.
- The Knesset fast-tracked a bill giving Israeli civilian bodies control over archaeological sites in the West Bank and Gaza, despite military opposition and international law concerns.
- Israeli forces conducted raids and demolished property in West Bank villages, fueling ongoing tensions.
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