A video showing Israeli forces abusing detained activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla has sparked widespread global outrage. Despite the international condemnation, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has remained defiant, defending the actions of the Israeli forces. The footage, released by Ben-Gvir’s office, shows him waving the Israeli flag and mocking flotilla supporters as the national anthem plays, while activists are seen being violently restrained.

Governments around the world have criticized Israel for abducting the activists from international waters. However, Ben-Gvir justified the treatment of the detainees and criticized Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar for suggesting the video harmed Israel’s image. In a post on social media platform X, Ben-Gvir stated that Israel would no longer act weakly toward those supporting Hamas or terrorism.

Foreign Minister Sa’ar publicly rebuked Ben-Gvir, saying he does not represent Israel’s official stance. The incident has deepened divisions within Israel’s leadership and intensified international scrutiny of its actions at sea.