France Urges Inquiry Into Alleged Israeli Mistreatment of Gaza Activists

The French authorities have requested a legal probe into accusations of violent mistreatment by Israel against activists attempting to reach Gaza via a flotilla. This movement could pave the way for legal action against Israeli practices.

In a separate action, France indefinitely prohibited far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory, citing his actions towards the detained activists as unacceptable. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized Paris's dissatisfaction by seeking criminal evaluations of these events.

Barrot recounted reports from French envoys in Turkey detailing severe mistreatment of French citizens, including physical and sexual violence during Israeli detention. He stated that the matter has now been submitted to the public prosecutor.

The contentious Global Sumud Flotilla, intercepted by Israeli forces, faced allegations of beatings and other abuses, which Israel denied. Ben-Gvir faced criticism for sharing a video mocking the detained activists, heightening international disapproval.

With the case now under judicial examination, the French government reiterates zero tolerance for threats or abuses against its citizens, particularly by officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)