EUJS strongly condemns Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir for his reprehensible taunting and humiliation of the Global Sumud Flotilla activists, as shown in a self-published video.

Ben-Gvir is a far-right political actor whose actions stand in opposition to the human rights standards that EUJS and broader Europe uphold. Furthermore, they fail to honour the values central to Jewish tradition.

This self-serving media stunt by Ben-Gvir — who has been convicted of incitement to racism and supporting terrorist organisations — seeks to sow hatred and division within Israeli society. EUJS believes that it is efforts like these that threaten the very essence of Israel as a democratic Jewish state.

As Israeli politics inevitably shapes perceptions far beyond Israel itself, the conduct of senior government officials has consequences for Jewish communities across the diaspora. Ben-Gvir's rhetoric and actions risk deepening hostility and polarisation in ways that ultimately harm Jews worldwide. Detaining an unlawful flotilla does not in any way justify the conduct demonstrated by the Minister of National Security.

EUJS therefore welcomes the condemnations issued by members of the Israeli government and opposition, and looks forward to democratic change that brings forward political leadership committed to upholding the fundamental democratic values on which Israel depends.