French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot said he has asked prosecutors to investigate the treatment of French citizens who took part in a recent flotilla heading towards the Gaza Strip.
Speaking to France Inter radio, Barrot said the request follows reports of “violence” against French activists after the vessel was intercepted by the Israeli navy off Cyprus on 18 May.
After the activists – of various nationalities – were detained, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir released footage showing them kneeling, with their hands bound and their heads lowered.
Barrot said he had referred the matter to prosecutors “on the basis of a report requested from our consulate in Turkey,” which detailed allegations including sexual violence, exposure to cold conditions, beatings and repeated humiliation of French citizens. He said such acts could constitute criminal offences.
“The matter is now in the hands of the judiciary,” the French minister added.
Diplomatic fallout
Following the release of the footage, France’s foreign ministry summoned Israel’s ambassador in Paris to seek clarification. Barrot also announced that Ben Gvir is now barred from entering France.
Lawyers representing the French activists said they would pursue separate legal action, citing allegations including abuse, humiliation, rape and torture.
However, the lawyers declined an invitation from Barrot to discuss the case, stating that the controversy surrounding his comments would not change their position that the French government has supported Israel “since the beginning of the genocide”.
The incident marks a further escalation in tensions surrounding efforts to reach Gaza and the treatment of activists intercepted at sea.
Source: CNA
