A video posted by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir showing detained activists kneeling with their hands bound and being dragged by Israeli forces has sparked international outrage.

The footage, shared on Ben-Gvir's X account with the message 'Welcome to Israel', prompted condemnation from leaders including Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the EU’s Kaja Kallas.Even supporters of Israel, such as US ambassador Mike Huckabee, criticised the minister's actions as degrading and harmful to Israel’s image.The activists were intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to reach Gaza with humanitarian supplies.

Under international humanitarian law, civilians delivering aid must be treated humanely and protected, as their actions do not constitute direct participation in hostilities.Detained civilians have rights, including proper detention conditions, access to legal counsel, and protection from public humiliation.The public display and taunting of the activists may breach these legal standards and could amount to war crimes under international law.

Experts stress that adherence to these protections preserves human dignity during conflict and prevents the normalisation of degrading treatment for political purposes.Israel’s handling of the flotilla raises serious questions about compliance with its international obligations.