Turkey and seven other nations condemned an Israeli minister Monday over the treatment of activists detained from a Gaza-bound flotilla, issuing a joint diplomatic statement. The eight countries said conduct attributed to National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir toward detainees violated basic dignity standards.
Hundreds of activists were intercepted last week while attempting to deliver humanitarian supplies by sea. Several governments reported injuries among their citizens and demanded independent investigations.
Israel’s prison service has denied abuse allegations, while Ben Gvir posted videos taunting detainees that drew international backlash. Turkey has organized large repatriation flights for activists, including its own nationals.
The statement adds pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition amid simultaneous scrutiny of Iran war diplomacy. Human rights groups documented testimonies of physical mistreatment and called for prosecutions where evidence supports charges.
European foreign ministries summoned Israeli diplomats in several capitals for explanations. Activist lawyers said they are compiling evidence for potential international complaints. Israel’s coalition partners debated whether Ben Gvir’s conduct damages wartime diplomacy with the United States.
Flotilla organizers said they are documenting testimonies for potential international complaints. Israel’s justice ministry said it opened an internal review of detention facility procedures after foreign protests.
Human Rights Watch said independent monitors should be allowed into detention sites where flotilla members were held.
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Sources:
https://article.wn.com/view/2026/05/25/Morning_Briefing_May_25_2026/