Brussels, May 21(HS): The European Commission has strongly criticised the treatment of pro-Palestinian activists detained by Israeli authorities after a Gaza-bound aid flotilla was intercepted in international waters, describing the incident as “completely unacceptable” and urging Israel to uphold international law and human dignity.
The condemnation came after footage circulated online showing detained activists kneeling on the ground in rows with their hands tied behind their backs while Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir observed the scene. The video triggered widespread criticism across Europe and intensified international scrutiny over Israel’s handling of humanitarian activists attempting to reach Gaza.
European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said the European Union was deeply concerned about the treatment of those detained, particularly because several of the activists are citizens of EU member states.
“Every detained person must be treated with safety, dignity, and in accordance with international law,” El Anouni stated. He further called on the Israeli government to ensure the protection and humane treatment of all activists involved in the flotilla mission.
The activists had been travelling aboard a humanitarian flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza when Israeli naval forces intercepted the vessels on Tuesday in international waters before escorting them to an Israeli port. Israeli authorities detained the activists shortly after the interception.
The incident has reignited debate within Europe over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the legal implications of intercepting civilian aid missions at sea. Human rights organisations and several European lawmakers have argued that the images reflected degrading treatment and raised serious concerns regarding compliance with international humanitarian standards.
The criticism also exposed divisions within Israel itself. Reports indicate that some Israeli officials privately expressed discomfort over the optics of the video and the international backlash it generated. The controversy comes at a time when global pressure on Israel has intensified amid continuing military operations in Gaza and mounting civilian casualties.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was among the European leaders who criticised the footage, reportedly describing the treatment of protesters as a violation of human dignity. Several European governments are now seeking clarification from Israeli authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding the detention and treatment of their nationals.
The European Union has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining humanitarian access to Gaza while also calling for restraint, adherence to international law, and protection of civilians amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
The latest diplomatic tension underscores growing international concern over Gaza, where humanitarian agencies continue to warn of severe shortages of food, medicine, fuel, and basic supplies due to the prolonged conflict and restrictions on aid access.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
