French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot announced today that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has been banned from entering French territory, effective immediately.
In a post on the "X" platform on Saturday, Barrot explained that the decision comes in response to "unacceptable actions" committed against French and European citizens aboard the Global Smud flotilla bound for Gaza.
"We reject the initiative of this flotilla, which achieves no useful result and burdens diplomatic and consular efforts, whose professionalism and dedication I commend," Barrot stated. "However, we cannot tolerate French citizens being subjected to threats, intimidation, or violent treatment—especially when perpetrated by an official."
Moreover, Barrot noted that these actions drew condemnation from several government officials and politicians within Israel itself.
He further pointed out that this incident is part of a "long series of shocking statements, practices, and incitement to hatred and violence against Palestinians."
The French Foreign Minister concluded his statement by saying, "As my Italian counterpart has done, I request that the European Union impose sanctions on Itamar Ben-Gvir."
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