Spain summons Israeli ambassador to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Spain has summoned the Israeli ambassador to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the mistreatment of activists detained by Israel on the Global Sumud Flotilla. Greece, meanwhile, has issued a protest note to Israel.

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Reactions continue over the mistreatment by Israel of activists detained on the Global Sumud Flotilla. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated that the Israeli Ambassador to Madrid had been summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noting that this step was taken in response to the monstrous, dishonorable, and degrading treatment of Spaniards and other members of the flotilla by Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Albares also demanded the immediate release of the activists and an apology from the Israeli government.

Protest note from Greece to Israel

In a statement issued by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was stated, "The behavior of the Israeli National Security Minister targeting citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms."

The statement further noted that a call was made to Israel to "immediately release" the detained Greek citizens and that a formal protest note had been issued under the instructions of Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis.

Condemnation of Israel from Germany and the UK

Germany's Ambassador to Israel, Steffen Seibert, described the treatment of the activists as "completely unacceptable," stating, "It is positive to see many Israeli officials, including the Foreign Minister, clearly condemn Minister Ben-Gvir's behavior toward the detainees. This behavior is completely unacceptable and does not align with the fundamental values of our countries."

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that she was "truly appalled" by the images in question, noting that they were in contact with the families of some British citizens involved in the incident and were providing consular support. Cooper said, "We have requested an explanation from Israeli authorities and have clearly reminded them of their obligations to protect the rights of our citizens and everyone involved in the incident."