Paris Imposes Sanctions: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Banned from Entering France

Paris authorities have banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory, as announced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Saturday (23/5/2026). The ban was imposed due to the unacceptable treatment of French and European citizens by the minister aboard the Global Sumud flotilla.

“Starting today, Itamar Ben-Gvir is prohibited from entering French territory,” Barrot stated in a statement reported by Al Arabiya.

Minister Ben-Gvir had previously uploaded a video mocking activists detained from the flotilla heading towards Gaza, in which he demanded that the activists kneel with their hands tied.

The French Minister noted that while Paris does not approve of the flotilla’s approach due to its lack of effectiveness and the burden it places on diplomatic and consular services, France cannot tolerate French citizens being threatened, intimidated, or treated brutally, especially by a public official. Barrot also praised the professionalism and dedication of the French diplomatic staff involved in the matter.