France has announced an immediate ban on Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering its territory, citing what it described as “derogatory and reprehensible behavior” toward European citizens.
The decision was confirmed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who said the move takes effect immediately following a controversial video shared by the minister on social media.
The diplomatic row was triggered by a video posted by Ben-Gvir showing detained foreign volunteers from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.
The footage reportedly showed dozens of activists with their hands tied and forced to kneel, while Ben-Gvir appeared in the video mocking them and captioning it “Welcome to Israel.”
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation across Europe and beyond, with leaders calling the treatment of detainees unacceptable.
France said it is also working with Italy and other European partners to push for stronger sanctions against Ben-Gvir at the European Union level.
Officials argue that the behavior shown in the video violates diplomatic norms and undermines European citizens’ rights.
Several European leaders have since echoed calls for broader restrictions.
Strong reactions from Europe and beyond
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez strongly condemned the incident, calling the treatment of detainees unacceptable and urging the European Union to consider a bloc-wide ban on Ben-Gvir.
British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also expressed shock and said the UK government had summoned Israel’s top diplomat in London for explanations.
European Council President António Costa and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas both criticized the incident as inappropriate and damaging to democratic values.
Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the images as “horrifying,” noting that sanctions had already been imposed on Ben-Gvir.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters also raised concerns and announced plans to summon the Israeli ambassador.
Even the US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticized the incident, calling the actions “despicable.”
Background
The controversy is linked to the “Global Samood Flotilla,” a group of nearly 50 ships that reportedly attempted to deliver aid to Gaza.
The vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters, and activists onboard were detained before later release, triggering international protests and diplomatic backlash.
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