UK Summons Israeli Diplomat Over Video of Detained Activists

The UK summoned Israel's most senior diplomat in London after a video showed Israeli police forcing detained activists to kneel on the ground with their hands tied behind their backs. " Armed soldiers were visible on a military vessel in the background.

" The video drew criticism from foreign leaders and from within Israel's own government. Israel's prime minister defended the interception of the flotilla but said the minister's treatment of the activists was not in line with Israel's values and norms.

A spokesperson for the Foreign

Office said the UK had summoned the Israeli chargé d'affaires following the video. The spokesperson stated that the summoning reflected the UK's strong condemnation of the minister's conduct and that the behavior violated basic standards of respect and dignity.

Officials also expressed concern over the detention conditions shown and demanded an explanation from Israeli authorities. The spokesperson added that the UK had made clear Israel's obligations to protect the rights of all those involved. Officials said they were in contact with the families of a number of British nationals and stood ready to provide consular support.

Israel's foreign minister said the minister's actions had harmed Israel.

The flotilla had set sail from southern Turkey with 430 people on board, including citizens of Italy and South Korea. Organizers said the group aimed to deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza and break Israel's blockade of the territory. Israel claims the blockade is lawful.

Aid workers have reported severe shortages in Gaza despite a US-brokered ceasefire in place since October 2025. Israel's prime minister said he had instructed that the activists be deported as soon as possible.