ATHENS, May 20 (BV)— Greece on Wednesday condemned Israeli National Security Minister over the treatment of Greek citizens detained during Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla headed toward Gaza.
The Greek Foreign Ministry described the treatment of detainees as “unacceptable and absolutely condemnable” and said Foreign Minister had ordered a formal diplomatic protest to be lodged with Israel.
“We demand full respect for international humanitarian law and human rights and call on the Israeli authorities to expedite all procedures and immediately release Greek citizens,” the ministry said in a statement.
The flotilla, carrying activists and humanitarian aid toward Gaza, was intercepted by Israeli forces amid escalating tensions over humanitarian access to the Palestinian enclave.
Videos circulating online from the Israeli port of Ashdod showed detained activists chanting “Free Palestine” before being restrained by security personnel.
Ben-Gvir appeared in footage addressing detainees, saying: “Welcome to Israel, we are the masters,” comments that triggered criticism from Greek officials and pro-Palestinian groups.
The diplomatic dispute comes despite recent contacts between Greek Prime Minister and Israeli Prime Minister over efforts related to a Gaza ceasefire.
Greece has also denied any involvement in the interception of the Gaza-bound flotilla.
The incident adds pressure to already strained regional diplomacy as international criticism grows over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.