France imposes entry ban on Israeli security minister

France has imposed a ban on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir from entering French territory over allegations of "reprehensible conduct" towards detained activists of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced the decision, according to a report by The Times of Israel.

"We do not agree with the approach of this flotilla. It is not producing any effective results and is creating excessive pressure on diplomatic and consular services," Barrot said in a statement. "However, we cannot accept that French citizens are threatened, intimidated or mistreated in this way, particularly by a government official."

Barrot noted that Ben Gvir's actions have already been condemned by many Israeli political figures. "This is part of a long history of statements and actions inciting hatred and violence against Palestinians," he said. He also called on the European Union to impose sanctions against Ben Gvir.

On Tuesday, Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of 50 ships attempting to break the blockade of Gaza in international waters, detaining 430 activists. The following day, Ben Gvir released a video showing him mocking bound activists kneeling on the floor.

Flotilla organisers alleged that detained activists were subjected to abuse in Israeli custody. Several were hospitalised with injuries, and at least 15 have reported sexual assault, including rape.