France Bans Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Over Flotilla Video
France announced a travel ban on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir after he posted video of detained activists. The foreign minister also called for European Union sanctions.
Le MondeFrance on Saturday banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering the country after he posted video showing detained activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. "
Post by @AJEnglish on X
Spain urged the European Union to impose sanctions, and the United Kingdom summoned Israel's senior diplomat in London. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the treatment of the activists was "not in line with Israel's values and norms," but kept Ben-Gvir in his post.
“From today, Itamar Ben Gvir is banned from entering French territory" after "his reprehensible actions towards French and European citizens" who were part of the humanitarian flotilla.”
The flotilla of about 50 vessels departed from Turkey last week. Israeli forces intercepted it in international waters roughly 250 miles off the Israeli coast, detaining around 430 people including 36 French nationals. " Israel said it would deport the activists.
A previous attempt to reach Gaza by sea was intercepted last month off Greece.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- May 24, 12:02 PM ET
3 new sources added: @AJEnglish, Al Jazeera, Foreign Policy
3 sources@AJEnglish · Al Jazeera · Foreign Policy - May 20, 2026
Ben-Gvir posted video of detained flotilla activists.
3 sourcesThe Washington Times · Le Monde · Al-Monitor - May 22, 2026
Poland announced a five-year entry ban on Ben-Gvir.
1 sourceThe Washington Times - May 23, 2026
France banned Ben-Gvir from entering the country and called for EU sanctions.
3 sourcesThe Washington Times · Le Monde · Al-Monitor
Potential Impact
- 01
The European Union may consider sanctions against Ben-Gvir.
- 02
Diplomatic tensions between France and Israel could increase.
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