PARIS, May 23, 2026 (WAFA) – France announced on Saturday that it has banned Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory, amid mounting international outrage over the treatment of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla that was attempting to reach Gaza.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot wrote on X: “As of today, Itamar Ben-Gvir is banned from entering French territory,” adding that he is also calling on the European Union to impose sanctions on Ben-Gvir.

The announcement comes days after videos published by Ben-Gvir showed detained activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla restrained with handcuffs and chains while being subjected to degrading treatment.

The footage triggered widespread condemnation from governments, human rights organizations, lawmakers, and activists around the world, who voiced their concern over Israel's violation of the dignity and rights of the detained activists.

M.N