In the videos, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir is seen calling on police to force detainees to shout pro-Israeli slogans, with one activist responding with a resounding: ‘Free Palestine.’

Ben-Gvir then, in a video he uploaded, raises a large Israeli flag and shouts in Hebrew: ‘Welcome to Israel, we are in charge here.’

More than 400 activists who tried to transport essential goods to Gaza were abducted by Israel in international waters, in the Cypriot search and rescue zone, in violation of every concept of international law. Among them are 19 Greek citizens.

It is recalled that a demonstration has been called outside the Israeli embassy tomorrow, Thursday, 21 May, at 7pm, at Freedom Park near the Athens Concert Hall, demanding the immediate release of the prisoners and condemning Israel for piracy, captivity and torture.

Meanwhile, after at least 30 hours of silence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed diplomatic correspondents about the fate of the 19 Greeks who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla and were arrested on Monday in international waters, during their attempt to break the maritime blockade of Gaza.

According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Lana Zohiou, the Greeks are expected to arrive gradually within the next few hours at the port of Ashdod, where identification and registration procedures will be carried out.

‘The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made representations to the Israeli side, calling on them to ensure the safety of Greek citizens and the rapid completion of the required procedures,’ she said, adding that the ministry remains in open contact with the relatives and friends of those on board in order to provide immediate information.

‘We demand absolute compliance with international law, respect for the dignity and rights of Greek citizens,’ she added.

The Greek ambassador is expected to be at the detention facility tomorrow morning in order to provide all necessary consular assistance.

‘With the receipt of the official report from the Hellenic National Defence General Staff to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we will take the necessary actions and official steps bilaterally and internationally,’ Zohiou pointed out.

‘Greece will not allow the spread of war to the Mediterranean. It will take all necessary measures to ensure that the Mediterranean does not become a theatre of military operations and that this incident will not be repeated.’

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