Israeli Minister Posts Video of Detained Gaza Flotilla Activists
Israel's national security minister released videos showing activists detained after a Gaza-bound flotilla was intercepted. The footage drew condemnation from several governments and a public rebuke from Israel's prime minister.
foxnews.comIsrael's national security minister released videos on Wednesday showing activists detained after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. The videos depict dozens of people with hands bound behind their backs and kneeling with foreheads on the ground at Ashdod port. In one clip the minister is heard saying "Welcome to Israel. We are the masters" while waving an Israeli flag.
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Several governments summoned Israeli representatives.
The UK foreign secretary said she was "truly appalled" and demanded an explanation from Israeli authorities. Italy's prime minister described the treatment as an "unacceptable" violation of the activists' human dignity. " Canada, Portugal, France, Ireland and Turkey also issued statements of condemnation.
Israel's foreign minister called the videos a "disgraceful display" and said the minister had "knowingly caused harm" to the state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the minister's actions were "not in line with Israel's values and norms" and instructed authorities to deport the activists as soon as possible.
Flotilla More than 50 boats carrying activists from over 40 countries departed from Turkey last Thursday carrying food, baby formula and medical supplies. Israeli naval forces began intercepting the vessels in international waters west of Cyprus on Monday.
Organizers said all boats were intercepted by Tuesday evening. Israeli authorities said the flotilla was a "PR stunt" and that no live ammunition was used during the operation. The activists were transferred to a detention facility at Ashdod port before being moved to Ketziot prison.
A rights group representing the detainees said it would challenge the legality of the detentions and demand their immediate release.
