France has banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the decision on Saturday, citing the minister's unspeakable and reprehensible behavior toward activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. Barrot stated that France would not tolerate its nationals being threatened or intimidated.
The ban follows the release of a video in which Ben-Gvir taunted detained activists who were bound and kneeling on the ground. The activists were part of the Sumud flotilla, which was intercepted in international waters by Israeli naval forces while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Some activists subsequently alleged they were physically assaulted during their detention before being deported from Israel.
The minister's conduct sparked global outrage and was rebuked by the United States and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated the actions were not in line with Israeli values and norms. Ben-Gvir has long faced criticism for his hard-line statements and harsh policies against Palestinian prisoners.
In addition to the entry ban, Foreign Minister Barrot has called upon the European Union to take sanctions against Ben-Gvir, a request made in coordination with his Italian counterpart. Barrot noted that the decision reflects growing anger among many governments worldwide regarding the treatment of the flotilla activists.