Rabat – International criticism is growing over Israel’s treatment of activists from a humanitarian flotilla heading to Gaza, after videos showed detainees kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs in the presence of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.
The incident has sparked outrage in several countries, many of which have summoned Israeli ambassadors.
Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski announced that Warsaw had summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires to demand an apology for what he called the “extremely inappropriate” behavior of a member of the Israeli government. France also condemned the treatment of the activists, calling the images “unacceptable.”
Canada has also summoned the Israeli ambassador “to demand assurances regarding the safety and security of Canadians involved,” Prime Minister Mark Carney said on social media.
Spain has also announced taking the same measure, describing Ben-Gvir’s actions as “monstrous” and “humiliating.”
The activists were part of a humanitarian flotilla attempting to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza. Israeli naval forces intercepted the flotilla on Tuesday and arrested several activists before taking them to prison. Following international pressure, some detainees have now been released or are expected to be released on Thursday.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions between the US and Iran appear to be continuing. Iran confirmed that it is “examining” a new American proposal delivered through Pakistani mediation. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran had received Washington’s positions and was reviewing them.
Pakistan has played a key role in indirect talks between the two sides. Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, is expected in Tehran to continue discussions aimed at reaching a peace agreement. US President Donald Trump said the situation with Iran remains “on the edge,” hinting at a possible agreement and also possible renewed military strikes.
Meanwhile, the war’s economic impact is spreading beyond the region. The European Commission lowered its growth forecast for the eurozone in 2026 from 1.2% to 0.9%, warning that the war and rising energy prices are increasing inflation and weakening economic confidence.
British airline EasyJet reported larger financial losses due to higher fuel costs and uncertainty linked to the war. France is also preparing a new aid plan to support sectors affected by the crisis while trying to avoid increasing public debt.
