Israeli naval commandos intercepted a fleet of boats attempting to breach the maritime blockade of Gaza this week, effectively neutralizing what the Israeli government labeled a 'PR stunt' in support of Hamas.
The operation, which took place in international waters, resulted in the detention of over 400 individuals from more than 40 countries who were transported to Ashdod port.
Following the interception, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the detention facility and posted a video showing him taunting the detainees, who were seen kneeling with their hands bound.
While the Israeli government maintains that the blockade is a lawful necessity to prevent aid from reaching Hamas, the footage triggered immediate condemnation from several Western nations, including the U.S., UK, France, and Italy.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu distanced his administration from Ben-Gvir’s actions, stating they were 'not in line with Israel's values,' while confirming that the government intends to deport the activists as quickly as possible.
Meanwhile, the rights group Adalah has leveled allegations of physical abuse and mistreatment against the detainees, claims that Israeli authorities have not yet addressed.
Despite the activists' claims that they were delivering humanitarian aid, Israel maintains that the territory is already receiving significant supplies and that the blockade remains a critical security measure against a terrorist organization that initiated the current conflict on October 7.
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