Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has described the treatment of activists aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla as 'unacceptable' during a phone conversation with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The call took place on Monday, following international outrage over the interception of the flotilla in international waters by Israeli forces.
Condemnation of video and remarks
Carney 'strongly condemned' recent remarks by Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who posted a video mocking the activists after their seizure. The video showed dozens of activists, including 12 Canadian citizens, forced to kneel with their foreheads to the ground and hands tied. Carney called for an independent investigation into the incident.
Activist accounts and diplomatic fallout
One of the Canadian activists, Safa Chebbi, told AFP by phone that the group was 'under constant threat.' Last week, Canada summoned the Israeli ambassador over the matter. Several activists have accused Israeli soldiers of physical abuse during detention before being deported.
France has banned Ben Gvir from entering its territory, and along with Italy and Spain, is calling on the European Union to impose sanctions on him. Ben Gvir's actions have also drawn criticism from within the Israeli government.
Israel's position
Herzog's office stated that the two leaders agreed Israel has the right to defend itself. A statement from Herzog's office said: 'President Herzog reiterated that Israel is acting against the threat of terror in accordance with international law and in coordination with regional and international partners.' Israel's foreign ministry has referred to the flotilla as a publicity stunt serving the militant group Hamas.
