France Bans Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Amid Growing International Backlash

The French government has announced a ban on Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory, escalating diplomatic tensions over the treatment of activists linked to a humanitarian flotilla heading toward Gaza.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed the decision on Saturday, stating that the move reflects growing international anger over recent incidents involving pro-Palestinian activists attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“As from today, Itamar Ben-Gvir is banned from entering French territory,” Barrot wrote on social media platform X.

The French foreign minister also revealed that he and his Italian counterpart are urging the European Union to impose broader sanctions against Ben-Gvir.

The controversy erupted after Ben-Gvir reportedly posted a video mocking activists connected to a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. Several activists later alleged they were physically assaulted while in detention, accusations denied by Israeli prison authorities.

The incident sparked criticism from several Western governments and intensified scrutiny of Israel’s treatment of activists and humanitarian efforts related to Gaza.

Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly distanced himself from Ben-Gvir’s actions, stating that the minister’s conduct was “not in line with Israel’s values and norms.”

The United States, one of Israel’s closest allies, also reportedly rebuked Ben-Gvir over the controversy.

Ben-Gvir, a prominent figure in Israel’s far-right political movement, has frequently drawn international criticism for his hardline positions on Palestinians, security policies, and settlement expansion in occupied territories.

The latest move by France highlights growing diplomatic pressure on certain members of the Israeli government as international concern deepens over the humanitarian and political situation in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A spokesperson for Ben-Gvir did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the French travel ban.

The decision could further strain relations between Israel and several European countries that have increasingly criticized Israeli government policies in recent months, particularly regarding Gaza, settlements in the West Bank, and the treatment of Palestinian civilians and activists.

Courtesy: reuters