World leaders have condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir after he posted a video in which detained pro-Palestinian activists, from the Global Sumud Flotilla, are taunted and mistreated.
The flotilla of about 50 boats, with more than 400 activists participating, was intercepted on its way to Gaza, with the Department of International Relations and Co-Operation labelling it an illegal abduction in international waters.
Several South African Nationals were on board the flotilla.
In the footage posted by Ben-Gvir, which has been widely circulated, activists are made to kneel with their hands tied behind their backs while Ben-Gvir waves an Israeli flag and declares: “We are the masters.”
WATCH | Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir shamelessly threw a humiliating “welcome party” for detained Global Sumud Flotilla activists, who were abused, held in a grueling stress position, and forced to listen to Israel’s national anthem. pic.twitter.com/zL4epSX9J8
— The Cradle (@TheCradleMedia) May 20, 2026
Governments including the United Kingdom, Canada, Spain, France and Australia criticised the treatment of the activists, while even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the conduct was not in line with Israel’s values.
Las imágenes del ministro israelí Ben Gvir humillando a los miembros de la flotilla internacional en apoyo a Gaza son inaceptables.
No vamos a tolerar que nadie maltrate a nuestros ciudadanos. En septiembre anuncié la prohibición de acceso al territorio nacional de este miembro…
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) May 20, 2026
The abominable treatment of civilians aboard the flotilla, including that which is documented in footage shared by Itamar Ben-Gvir, is unacceptable.
Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has directed officials to summon the Israeli ambassador to demand assurances regarding the…
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) May 20, 2026
Rights groups have called for the immediate release of the activists.
Local outrage is also starting to grow. The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation has expressed its “profound outrage and unreserved condemnation” following the illegal interception and detention of South African citizens.
“The seizure of unarmed civilians in international waters is an act of state-sponsored lawlessness that seeks to silence the global conscience.”
The Foundation says this latest act of aggression follows a historical pattern of Israeli authorities obstructing solidarity missions.
“As an organisation rooted in the values of Ahmed Kathrada, we recognize this struggle; South Africans understand intimately that global solidarity is the lifeblood of liberation. Just as the world stood with us against the crime of apartheid, we must stand with those who brave the high seas to deliver hope to Gaza.”
Among the South Africans who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla is UWC postgraduate student, Hajar Kagiso Al Tha’irah Ahjum Mathee.
Hajar is pursuing a Master’s degree in Medical Bioscience at UWC and serves as Chairperson of the UWC Palestinian Solidarity Association student movement.
In a statement, UWC expressed its pride in Hajar, saying the institution stands in solidarity with Hajar, her family and friends, and all those participating in the Flotilla.
“We join the international call for the safe and immediate release of all detained participants and reaffirm our commitment to human rights, dignity, and global justice.”
Following the circulation of the footage, in which it appears activists are being mistreated, UWC spokesperson Gasant Abarder said they are very concerned about the well-being of Hajar.
He said her family was also anxious to hear updates from her.
