Finland has requested an explanation from Israel's ambassador over the treatment of the activists detained from the Global Sumud aid flotilla.

The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs addressed the issue on social media site X, referring to a video released by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

The footage appeared to show detained activists kneeling on the deck of a boat with their hands tied behind their backs.

“Finland does not approve of the actions depicted in the video,” the ministry said.

According to the ministry, detainees from the flotilla must be treated with dignity, their legal rights respected and their safety ensured.

“The rule of law and international law must be respected,” the ministry added, noting that while Finland advises against all travel to Gaza, that does not diminish these principles.

In the video, Ben-Gvir is also seen encouraging a detention centre staff member who pushes down a detainee after he attempts to stand up.

Three Finns among detainees

Three Finnish citizens were detained when Israeli authorities intercepted the aid flotilla on Tuesday.

According to consular affairs official Jussi Tanner, the Finns have since been transported to Israel.

The foreign ministry said it is in contact with Israeli authorities and providing assistance in line with Finland’s consular services legislation. The Finnish Embassy in Tel Aviv is also seeking access to the detainees.

“We expect Israel to guarantee their safety and [give them] dignified treatment,” Tanner said.

Ministry: Activists being deported

On Thursday afternoon, the foreign ministry told Yle that Israel is aiming to deport the activists soon.
"We are of the opinion that Finns are being deported from Israel as quickly as possible," said Antti Vaaras, senior adviser at Finland's consular assistance unit.
The ministry has not announced where and how the Finns would be transferred from Israel. Vaaras said the ministry cannot provide more details about the detained Finnish citizens without their permission.
The ministry has not been in direct contact with the detainees, Vaaras said.
"We've been in contact with the [flotilla] organisers, the Finns' relatives and the Israeli authorities," he said.

Edited at 16:01 on 21 May 2026, to add the ministry saying that the activists would be deported soon.