Foreign Office summons top Israeli diplomat after Benjamin Netanyahu's security minister taunted detained Gaza flotilla activists

The Foreign Office has summoned a top Israeli diplomat after Benjamin Netanyahu's security minister taunted detained Gaza flotilla activists.

The Israeli charge d’affaires was called to the British Government following the "inflammatory" footage of the detainees was released by Itamar Ben-Gvir.

A spokesman for the department confirmed he had been summoned this morning.

He said: "The UK has today summoned the Israeli chargé d’affaires to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office following the inflammatory video posted by Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

"The summoning reflects the UK’s strong condemnation of his conduct in taunting those involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla. This behaviour violates the most basic standards of respect and dignity for people.

"We are also deeply concerned by the detention conditions depicted and have demanded an explanation from the Israeli authorities. We made clear their obligations to protect the rights of all those involved.

"The flotilla’s attempt to deliver aid underlines the severity of the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israel must ensure significantly more aid can enter safely and at scale through land routes.

"We are in contact with the families of a number of British nationals involved and stand ready to provide consular support at any time."

MORE TO FOLLOW...

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS