Ben-Gvir banned from France, French FM Barrot says, demanding sanctions against far-right minister
France has banned National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering the country, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced Saturday, after controversy over Ben-Gvir’s treatment of Global Sumud Flotilla participants detained last week.
“As of this day, Itamar Ben-Gvir is banned from accessing French territory,” Barrot said, adding that France disapproves of the flotilla approach to Gaza because it “produces no useful effect and burdens diplomatic and consular services,” while praising their professionalism and dedication. He also said France “cannot tolerate French nationals being threatened, intimidated, or brutalized in this way, especially by a public official.”
Barrot noted that these actions have been condemned by many Israeli government and political figures and said they follow “a long list of shocking statements and actions, incitements to hatred and violence against Palestinians.” He urged other EU members to follow France’s lead, noting that Italy had already taken steps last week.
Italy was the first European country to respond after video emerged of Ben-Gvir’s conduct toward flotilla participants. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Italy “demands an apology for the treatment” of activists and for the “total disrespect” shown toward Italian government requests. He called the footage “unacceptable” and said it is “inadmissible” that activists, including many Italians, were treated in a way that harms their dignity. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Italy was “immediately taking, at the highest institutional levels, all necessary steps to secure the immediate release of the Italian citizens involved.”
Tajani also said he had “formally requested” that EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas include potential sanctions against Ben-Gvir in the next EU foreign ministers’ meeting. European Council President António Costa said he was “appalled” by Ben-Gvir’s “completely unacceptable” actions and called for the activists’ immediate release.
Ben-Gvir posted a video Wednesday showing him harassing detained flotilla activists in Ashdod after Israeli forces intercepted their ships Tuesday. In it, he forces a woman’s head down after she shouts “Free, free Palestine,” replying “Shut up!” In another clip, he waves an Israeli flag and says, “Welcome to Israel! We own this place.”
