PARIS — Several European countries have summoned Israeli ambassadors in their capitals following strong diplomatic backlash over the treatment of activists involved in aid efforts for Gaza, officials and media reports said Wednesday.
The diplomatic tensions escalated after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir released a video showing detained activists appearing to be humiliated inside a detention facility, sparking widespread condemnation in Israel and abroad.
Human rights group Adalah said it had received confirmation from the Israeli prison authorities that all detained activists linked to Gaza-bound aid missions would be released and deported to their home countries.
The group described the interception of aid vessels in international waters and the detention of those on board as a “clear violation of international law,” also alleging mistreatment and arbitrary detention.
Reports from within Israel said detainees were being transferred from a detention facility in the Negev region to Ramon Airport, where deportation procedures were being arranged. Turkish Airlines was reported to be among carriers involved in transporting some of the activists back to Istanbul.
The incident has triggered political debate within Israel, with some Israeli media outlets criticizing Ben-Gvir for escalating international attention on the case, which had initially received limited global visibility.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also come under diplomatic pressure, as several European governments demanded explanations over the handling of the activists and the interception of aid missions in international waters.
The summoning of Israeli envoys marks a rare coordinated diplomatic response from European capitals, underscoring growing tensions over the Gaza conflict and the treatment of pro-Palestinian humanitarian activists.
Israel has not issued an immediate official response to the diplomatic moves.
The development comes amid continuing international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and renewed calls from governments and rights groups for restraint and adherence to international law in military and maritime operations.
European officials said further diplomatic steps could follow if clarity is not provided on the treatment and legal status of the detained activists.
