Summary
Prime Minister Mark Carney publicly denounced the treatment of activists detained after an Israeli interception of a Gaza-bound flotilla, calling the conduct "abominable" and unacceptable. Ottawa said it will summon the Israeli ambassador to register a protest after a video circulated showing detainees forced to kneel with their hands tied. Canada has already imposed targeted sanctions on Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who shared the footage.
Details of the incident and Ottawa's response
Carney used unusually strong language for a statement about a close ally, describing the handling of the detained civilians as "abominable." He posted on social media: "The abominable treatment of civilians aboard the flotilla, including that which is documented in footage shared by Itamar Ben-Gvir, is unacceptable."
Ottawa said it would summon the Israeli ambassador to protest after the circulation of a video in which activists appear forced to kneel on the ground in rows with their hands tied behind their backs. The footage was shared by Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister.
The activists had been aboard a flotilla that Israeli forces intercepted in international waters on Tuesday. Following the interception, the detainees were taken to an Israeli port.
Background on Canada-Israel relations under the current government
Under Prime Minister Carney, who succeeded Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party and prime minister in March 2025, Canada has taken a harder line toward Israel than in previous years. In September, Carney announced that Canada would recognize Palestinian statehood, a move that drew Israeli displeasure.
Carney also noted existing measures taken by Ottawa against Mr. Ben-Gvir, saying: "Canada has already imposed strict sanctions on Mr. Ben-Gvir, including asset freezes and a travel ban, in response to his repeated incitement of violence."
What is known and what remains uncertain
The public record in this episode includes the interception of the flotilla in international waters, the subsequent transfer of activists to an Israeli port, the sharing of detainee footage by Mr. Ben-Gvir, and Canadas decision to summon the Israeli ambassador and to maintain sanctions on Ben-Gvir. The broader diplomatic consequences and any further actions by either government have not been set out in the statements referenced here.
This account reflects only the details provided in official statements and publicly shared footage; where information is limited, Ottawas response and Israels next steps remain uncertain based on the available record.