Arabic version: إيطاليا تحقق مع وزير إسرائيلي بشأن معاملة النشطاء المحتجزين

Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation into far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over the treatment of Italian nationals detained during the interception of an aid flotilla bound for Gaza. According to Al Jazeera, the inquiry follows a video posted by Ben-Gvir after the detention of the activists last month.

This marks Italy as the second European nation to formally investigate Israel’s actions concerning the detained activists, with France having opened a probe on Friday into allegations of war crimes and torture. Both Italian and French prosecutors are currently assessing whether there is enough evidence to bring criminal charges against Ben-Gvir.

In response to the allegations, Ben-Gvir took to social media, stating that Italy, commonly known as ‘the Boot’ due to its shape, has become “the land of the flip-flop.” He expressed his determination to face any investigations while continuing to support Israeli forces.

The European Union is considering sanctions against Ben-Gvir due to rising discontent over Israel’s treatment of the activists and escalating violence in the occupied West Bank, which he has enthusiastically encouraged. More than 400 activists were detained in international waters off the coast of Cyprus last month while attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Activists have described their experiences during the detention as “extremely violent,” “humiliating,” and “dehumanising.”