The European Commission has criticised the treatment of activists detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, calling the scenes shown in a video released by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir “completely unacceptable”.

European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said on Wednesday that all detainees must be treated in accordance with international law and basic human rights standards. In a statement posted on X, he said, “Every detained person must be treated with safety, dignity and according to international law.” He also urged the Israeli government to ensure the protection and dignified treatment of the activists, several of whom are citizens of European Union member states.

The controversy erupted after footage circulated showing activists kneeling on the ground in rows with their hands tied behind their backs while Ben-Gvir observed the scene. The activists had been aboard a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid intended for Gaza before Israeli forces intercepted the vessels in international waters on Tuesday.

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According to Israeli authorities, the flotilla was stopped as part of security operations linked to the ongoing conflict surrounding Gaza. Following the interception, the activists were detained and transported to an Israeli port for questioning and processing. The operation quickly drew criticism from international observers, human rights groups and several foreign governments.

The incident has intensified scrutiny of Israel’s handling of pro-Palestinian activists and humanitarian missions attempting to reach Gaza. Critics argue that intercepting civilian aid flotillas in international waters raises serious legal and humanitarian concerns, particularly amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory.

The backlash has also extended within Israel, where some political figures reportedly questioned the handling of the detainees and the public release of the footage. The European Union has not announced any specific diplomatic action so far, but officials indicated they are closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with Israeli authorities regarding the detained activists.

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