Switzerland Says Israel's Crackdown on Gaza Flotilla 'Unacceptable'

2026-05-21 03:38:12

(MENAFN) Switzerland's Foreign Ministry broke its silence Wednesday over Israel's handling of detained Gaza-bound aid activists, declaring their treatment unacceptable and flagging what it said appeared to be violations of international law and basic human rights.

"The FDFA (Federal Department of Foreign Affairs) deplores the unacceptable treatment of some participants, which appears inconsistent with the assurances received from the Israeli authorities regarding respect for international law and fundamental rights," the ministry posted on X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk.

Bern made clear that prior commitments extended by Israel were not optional — stating that pledges "must be upheld in practice," encompassing "humane detention conditions, procedural guarantees and the right to defence."

The statement followed the circulation of a video posted by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, which captured flotilla activists zip-tied and compelled to kneel on their knees following their detention by Israeli forces in international waters.

The Global Sumud humanitarian aid flotilla had announced Tuesday that Israeli forces seized all 50 vessels in its convoy.

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