France's government announced on Friday that it is requesting prosecutors to investigate Israel's alleged violent mistreatment of activists involved in a flotilla to Gaza, potentially opening a path for criminal proceedings. This move follows an indefinite ban from French territory imposed on Israel's far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, for what Paris described as his 'unspeakable' behavior toward flotilla activists while they were in Israeli detention.
Foreign Minister's Statement
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated on Friday that he had received a report from French diplomats in Turkey detailing 'sexual violence, exposure to cold, beatings and repeated humiliations of French nationals — all acts that could constitute criminal offenses.' Speaking to public broadcaster France Inter, Barrot confirmed, 'I decided yesterday to refer the matter to the public prosecutor. This case is now in the hands of the justice system.' Under French criminal procedure law, prosecutors determine how to follow up on complaints and whether charges can be pursued.
Flotilla Incident and Allegations
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of 50 boats, was intercepted this month in international waters approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) off the coast of Israel. The Israeli government subsequently released and deported hundreds of the activists to Turkey. Activists accused Israeli forces of mistreatment during detention, including beatings, use of tasers, and attack dogs. Israel has denied these allegations. Ben-Gvir sparked global outrage after promoting a video in which he taunted detained activists.
In a May 23 post announcing the ban on Ben-Gvir entering French territory, Barrot emphasized: 'We cannot tolerate that French nationals can be threatened, intimidated or brutalized in this way — all the more so by a public official.' The decision to involve prosecutors signals Paris's deepening displeasure with Israel's handling of the incident.
