A group of Gaza activists, who were detained by Israeli forces in international waters while attempting to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, have been released and deported from Israel. Their detention, under the supervision of Itamar Ben-Gvir, the country’s far-right police minister, sparked international criticism, including from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ben-Gvir and another cabinet member, Minister of Transport Miri Regev, used the incident for political posturing with campaign-style videos.
The activists were part of a flotilla organized to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza and provide much-needed aid, despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas brokered by the U.S. in October 2025. Reports from the Adalah rights group detailed alleged mistreatment of the activists, including physical abuse, tasering, and humiliation tactics by Israeli authorities.
Following their release, two Italian activists accused Israeli forces of assault and mistreatment. The allegations, including claims of physical violence and verbal threats, have led to diplomatic repercussions as several countries, including Canada, Spain, and France, summoned Israeli diplomats over the incident.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry denied the allegations of mistreatment, stating that non-lethal force was used as a warning and that detainees were treated in accordance with the law and provided medical care. Despite the controversy, Israeli officials maintained that the activists were handled appropriately.
The incident has drawn international attention and condemnation, with world leaders expressing concern over the treatment of the activists. Calls for sanctions against Israeli officials involved in the incident have been raised, further escalating the diplomatic fallout from the detention and deportation of the Gaza activists.