Several governments condemned Israel after an Israeli minister posted a video showing detained activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla being mistreated. Countries highlighted human rights violations and called for their immediate release, with diplomatic protests from nations including Belgium, Italy, France, Ireland, and Indonesia.
The legal group Adalah reported that dozens of abducted Gaza flotilla participants faced severe violence, serious injuries, and sexual humiliation after Israeli forces raided their boats at Ashdod Port. Lawyers described widespread violations during arrest and transfer to Ktziot Prison, with ongoing legal monitoring and calls for immediate release of all abductees.
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung condemned Israel’s abduction of South Korean nationals in international waters near Gaza, calling for their release and an end to the blockade. He emphasized Seoul’s need to judge the ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu.
Italy’s government condemned Israel’s treatment of activists in the Gaza flotilla as unacceptable and announced it would summon the Israeli ambassador for explanation. This followed a video showing Israeli soldiers and a minister taunting the hand-tied activists aboard the vessels.
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited activists detained after Israeli forces seized Gaza-bound flotilla vessels, mocking them as terror supporters. The incident sparked international condemnation, calls for releasing detainees, and concerns over ongoing restrictions and violence in Gaza.
Thousands of Palestinian patients remain stranded in Gaza due to tight Israeli restrictions, facing a worsening health crisis as only limited numbers are allowed to leave through Rafah crossing for treatment abroad. Despite a ceasefire, Israel continues attacks and restricts humanitarian aid.
Somaliland has recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and will open an embassy there, while Israel will open an embassy in Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa. This deepens ties following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, despite widespread condemnation.
Israeli occupation police have established a special unit in the West Bank to monitor foreign journalists and deny entry to those critical of the occupation. Israel has also blocked foreign media access to Gaza since October 2023, with the Supreme Court repeatedly delaying decisions regarding access.
