Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has requested the Interior Ministry impose a travel ban on Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir after two Polish citizens were detained during a flotilla operation.
Polish Nationals Released After Detention
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maciej Wewiór confirmed that two Polish citizens detained by Israeli forces have been released. They are currently en route to Turkey and are expected to depart Israel today.
Polish consular officials maintained a presence at locations where detainees were held, including the port of Ashdod, and coordinated their release alongside representatives from other nations involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Diplomatic Fallout and Proposed Sanctions
Poland held a brief meeting with the Israeli chargé d’affaires to express strong indignation over viral footage showing Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir mocking detained activists. While the Israeli side acknowledged Poland’s concerns, no formal apology was issued.
The severity of the government’s stance is underscored by Minister Sikorski’s formal request to the Ministry of the Interior and Administration to ban Ben-Gvir from entering Polish territory.
Military Intervention Against the Flotilla
Israeli forces intercepted 50 boats belonging to the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Authorities transported approximately 428 activists to Ashdod for processing.
Reports from the Polish section of the flotilla indicate that Israeli forces opened fire on at least three vessels, including the Polish-flagged Zefiro. Activists on board were recorded pleading for forces to cease fire during the confrontation.