France bans Israeli minister Ben-Gvir from its territory

France has officially banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering its territory, a decision announced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The move reflects France's strong disapproval of Ben-Gvir's conduct and statements concerning the activists of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Barrot expressed France's "anger" over the treatment of the activists, who were intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters. The activists were subsequently detained in Israel and later deported. The French minister also urged the European Union to impose sanctions on Ben-Gvir, stating, "Together with my partners from Italy, I am asking the EU to also impose sanctions on Itamar Ben-Gvir."

International outcry intensified after Ben-Gvir's ministry released a video showing him taunting the detained activists, who were seen kneeling with their eyes covered and hands bound at the Port of Ashdod. Several nations, including Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, and Spain, summoned their Israeli ambassadors to protest the treatment of the activists, deeming it unacceptable and a violation of human dignity.

"We cannot tolerate French citizens being threatened, intimidated, or subjected to violence in this manner, especially by a public official," Barrot stated. He noted that Ben-Gvir's actions had drawn criticism from various Israeli government and political figures, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who deemed the minister's behavior "not in line with Israeli values and norms." The United States, a key ally of Israel, also reportedly condemned the actions. Furthermore, activists reported alleged violence during their detention, with organizers of the flotilla detailing at least 15 cases of alleged sexual violence and degrading treatment.