Israeli National Security Minister released video footage showing detained Gaza flotilla activists kneeling handcuffed at Ashdod Port after Israeli forces intercepted the vessels attempting to breach the naval blockade of Gaza and brought the pro-Hamas activists to Israel.

The footage shows activists shouting “Free Palestine” as officers restrain several individuals while Ben Gvir tours the facility, waving a large Israeli flag and declaring in Hebrew: “Welcome to Israel, we’re in charge here.”

They were also forced to listen to the Israeli national anthem.

Following the publication of the video, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani issued a furious statement demanding an apology for Israel’s treatment of the pro-Hamas activists and Israel’s “total disrespect” for Italy’s requests.

The statement did not mention the activists’ “disrespect” of Israel’s autonomy and its blockade of a murderous terror group.

“The images of Israeli Minister Ben Gvir are unacceptable. It is unacceptable that these protesters, including many Italian citizens, are subjected to this treatment that violates their human dignity,” the statement said.

(YWN Israel Desk—Jerusalem)