Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has strongly criticised the treatment of activists aboard a Gaza bound aid flotilla, calling their handling by Israeli forces “unacceptable” during a conversation with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
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According to a statement released on Monday, Carney condemned what he described as the “appalling treatment” of activists who were intercepted by Israeli soldiers in international waters while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.
Canadian PM Mark Carney has expressed indignation at the Israeli gov’t’s “appalling” treatment of the Gaza flotilla activists and called for an independent investigation into Israeli mistreatment, but stopped short of penalties.
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The incident drew international attention after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir shared a controversial video online showing activists kneeling with their foreheads to the ground and their hands tied. The footage sparked widespread criticism and diplomatic backlash from several countries and human rights groups.
Reports indicated that the group included 12 Canadian citizens among dozens of activists participating in the flotilla mission. Carney, during his discussion with Herzog, called for an independent investigation into the incident and strongly condemned Ben Gvir’s remarks and actions.
The Canadian government has not yet announced any additional diplomatic measures but emphasized the need for accountability and respect for international humanitarian principles.
One of the Canadian activists, Safa Chebbi, told AFP that those aboard the flotilla had been living “under constant threat” since their detention. Rights advocates and humanitarian organisations have also raised concerns regarding the safety and treatment of the activists.
The latest incident has further intensified international scrutiny of Israel’s actions related to Gaza and humanitarian access to the Palestinian territory. It also comes amid continuing tensions in the region and growing global calls for improved humanitarian protections and unrestricted aid delivery to civilians affected by the conflict.
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Diplomatic reactions to the flotilla incident continue to emerge as governments and international organisations seek further details about the operation and the treatment of those detained.