France has barred Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering the country following accusations related to the treatment of activists aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot described the actions against European participants as unacceptable and called for broader European measures.
Barrot stated that France could not accept intimidation or mistreatment involving French citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla. He also noted that criticism of Ben-Gvir’s conduct had emerged from several Israeli political figures, citing previous statements and actions that allegedly fueled hostility and violence against Palestinians.
The French minister urged the European Union to consider sanctions against Ben-Gvir, echoing similar demands from Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Tajani reportedly requested that EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas place the issue on the agenda for the next meeting of EU foreign ministers.
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin also called for formal discussions among European leaders regarding Israel’s handling of EU citizens aboard the flotilla.
The controversy intensified after footage circulated online appearing to show Ben-Gvir walking among detained activists who were kneeling with their hands restrained. In the video, the Israeli minister appeared to wave a national flag and mock detainees.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying 428 participants from 44 countries, departed from Türkiye in an attempt to challenge the long-standing blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007.
PRESS UPDATE