Iran Warns Europe Over Gaza Activist Incident, Citing Lessons From Nazi Era

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has urged European countries to reflect on the historical lessons of the Nazi era, warning that continued silence over Israel’s treatment of humanitarian activists could lead to the repetition of past atrocities.

In a statement posted on X on Thursday, Baghaei condemned the reported actions of Israel’s Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir at Ashdod Port, where detained humanitarian activists—some reportedly European citizens—were shown being publicly humiliated after their interception.

He described the scenes as “deeply disturbing”, saying they echoed “the darkest chapters of history” when abuses of power went unchecked and states considered themselves above international law.

Baghaei argued that Europe once believed it could remain detached from systematic violations of human dignity during the 1930s but later faced the consequences of that perceived neutrality. He warned that history demonstrates how unchecked abuses and silence from the international community can normalise violations and embolden further actions.

“The real danger today is not limited to individual conduct,” he said, adding that broader “silence, inaction, and tolerance” toward ongoing conflict-related issues risk enabling continued escalation and erosion of international norms.

He further cautioned that a widening gap between stated Western values and actual political responses could undermine global legal and moral frameworks, stressing that impunity “does not restrain wrongdoing; it encourages it”.

The remarks came after reports that Israeli authorities intercepted a flotilla of vessels carrying humanitarian activists and aid bound for Gaza. According to organisers, dozens of ships were seized and hundreds of activists from multiple countries were detained after the operation in international waters.

Footage circulated online by Israeli officials showed detained activists being processed after arrival at Ashdod Port, drawing criticism from Iran and other voices calling for greater international scrutiny of the incident.

The situation has further intensified diplomatic tensions surrounding the ongoing Gaza crisis, with renewed calls from Iran for stronger international action and accountability.