Finland demands explanation from Israeli ambassador over treatment of detained activists

Finland will request an explanation from Israel’s ambassador regarding the treatment of detained members of the Global Sumud fleet, the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs said on X, as reported by Yle. The ministry stated that Finland does not accept the actions depicted in a video showing detainees kneeling on a boat deck with their hands bound behind their backs.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir published the video, which shows activists taken from an aid convoy bound for Gaza. In the footage, Ben-Gvir encourages a detention centre staff member who presses down on a detainee after the person rises. Several countries have condemned the video.

Three Finnish citizens were among those detained from the aid fleet on Tuesday and have been transported to Israel, said Jussi Tanner, head of consular services at the foreign ministry, on X. Finland’s embassy in Tel Aviv is seeking to meet the detainees, Tanner added. “We expect Israel to guarantee their safety and dignified treatment,” he said.

The ministry emphasised that the rule of law and international law must be upheld. It has recommended avoiding all travel to Gaza, but said that recommendation does not override the principles of respectful treatment, legal protection, and security for the detainees.

Tags: Gaza, Israel, Finland