Following the release of a video by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir showing him taunting Gaza flotilla activists with a “Welcome to Israel” message upon their arrival in Israel, the footage sparked growing political and diplomatic backlash.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar sharply responded, accusing Ben Gvir of harming the State of Israel and undoing the “tremendous, professional, and successful efforts” carried out by IDF soldiers, Foreign Ministry staff, and others. Sa’ar wrote: “No, you are not the face of Israel.”

The controversy also drew an international response, with Italy summoning Israel’s ambassador over what it described as “unacceptable treatment” tied to the footage filmed at Ashdod Port, where the flotilla activists arrived.