Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has criticized Israel’s treatment of detained Gaza flotilla activists as “abominable,” announcing that Ottawa will summon Israel’s ambassador following a video shared by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The footage shows activists kneeling on the ground with hands tied behind their backs and heads touching the floor.
Addressing reporters in a conference call, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed deep concern over the video shared by Ben-Gvir, emphasizing the urgent need for humane treatment of civilians. Carney emphasized the importance of upholding the protection of civilians and human dignity, noting that Canada had previously imposed sanctions on Ben-Gvir for inciting violence against Palestinian communities.
Carney stated that Canadian officials will seek assurances regarding the safety of detained Canadians. Global Sumud Canada confirmed that 12 Canadian nationals from the flotilla were currently detained. In a separate video, Ben-Gvir is seen taunting the activists, suggesting they should remain in prison for an extended period.
Following the backlash, Canada, along with Italy, France, and the Netherlands, summoned Israeli ambassadors over the treatment of activists in the video. Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen described the images as shocking and unacceptable. Similarly, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized the need for respectful treatment and swift release of French citizens involved.
Italy strongly condemned the treatment of detained activists, calling it a violation of human dignity. The Italian government is taking urgent steps to secure the release of Italian citizens among the detainees. The U.K.’s foreign minister expressed dismay over the video and indicated providing support to British nationals involved.
An Israel-based legal advocacy group accused Israeli authorities of employing abusive tactics against activists on the flotilla. Adalah demanded immediate release and legal protection for the detained individuals. Flotilla organizers claimed Israeli forces fired on boats during the interception, causing damage but no injuries.
Criticism of the interception extended internationally, with Turkey and Hamas denouncing it as piracy. The U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on European activists aboard the flotilla, labeling them as “pro-terror.” Israel has maintained a sea blockade of Gaza since 2007, citing security concerns. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported a high death toll from retaliatory actions following militant attacks. Critics argue the blockade amounts to collective punishment, while Israel maintains it is necessary to prevent Hamas from obtaining weapons.