A tense confrontation erupted at Spain’s Bilbao Airport over the weekend when police forcefully removed Gaza flotilla activists who allegedly blocked passengers from exiting an aircraft after landing from Turkey following their deportation from Israel.

Videos circulating online showed officers using batons against several activists and dragging some of them across the airport floor as the situation spiraled into chaos.

WATCH:

We demand an explanation from the Spanish government regarding its treatment of the flotilla anarchists. pic.twitter.com/RHMPVAWbwz

— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) May 23, 2026

According to reports from Spain, the clash began when members of the flotilla group stopped near the aircraft exit to stage a photo opportunity, preventing other travelers from disembarking. Authorities said the activists refused repeated instructions to clear the area so passengers could safely leave the plane.

Spanish police arrested four activists after the disturbance. Officials said they face accusations including serious disobedience, resisting arrest, and assaulting police officers.

The Basque regional police force, known as the Ertzaintza, later announced an internal review into the officers’ conduct during the incident.

“Following what happened at the airport, the Ertzaintza internal affairs division has launched an investigation to determine whether the officers’ conduct complied with procedures.”

Israel’s Foreign Ministry quickly seized on the footage, posting video of the confrontation online while mocking Spain’s criticism of Israel’s handling of previous flotilla activists.

“We demand an explanation from the Spanish government regarding its treatment of the flotilla anarchists.”

The controversy comes just days after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir drew international criticism for releasing footage in which he taunted activists connected to the Gaza flotilla effort.