The recent actions of Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's far-right national security minister, have sparked significant controversy following his visit to Ashdod port, where he filmed himself interacting with activists detained after an attempted Gaza flotilla. This incident, reminiscent of the 2010 Mavi Marmara operation that resulted in the deaths of 10 activists, has reignited debates over Israel's maritime blockade and treatment of Gaza. Ben-Gvir's provocative remarks, including declaring 'We are the masters here,' have drawn harsh criticism from European capitals and raised the possibility of a travel ban against him within the EU. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu issued a tepid criticism, stating that while Israel has the right to prevent flotillas, Ben-Gvir's approach was not consistent with the nation's values. Despite the backlash, Ben-Gvir's actions resonate with his extremist supporters, potentially boosting his political standing ahead of the upcoming elections. The left-leaning Haaretz newspaper called for a reevaluation of Israel's flotilla interception policy, suggesting that allowing activists to reach Gaza could improve Israel's international image.