Borg Slams Israeli Minister’s ‘Unacceptable’ Behaviour

Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Borg has publicly condemned the behaviour of Israel’s Public Security Minister Omer Bar-Lev, describing it as “deeply disturbing and unacceptable”. The rebuke comes after Bar-Lev was caught on video berating a Maltese official during a visit to the Mediterranean island nation.

Video Shows Verbal Altercation

Footage circulating on social media shows Bar-Lev raising his voice and pointing his finger at a Maltese official during a meeting at the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs in Valletta. The incident, which took place last week, has since sparked outrage among local politicians and the public.

“I have seen the video and I am appalled by the behaviour of the Israeli minister,” Borg said in a statement. “This is not how one should behave, especially when visiting another country as a guest.”

Israeli Embassy Apologises

The Israeli Embassy in Malta has since issued an apology, stating that Bar-Lev’s behaviour was “not in line with the values and norms that guide our relations with other countries”. However, Borg maintains that the apology does not suffice.

“Words are not enough,” Borg said. “This behaviour is a stain on the relationship between our two countries. We expect more respect and professionalism from our international partners.”

Political Backlash

The incident has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum in Malta. Opposition leader Bernard Grech described Bar-Lev’s behaviour as “disgraceful”, while former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat called it “unacceptable and unbecoming of a minister”.

“This is not about politics,” Muscat said. “This is about respect and dignity, values that we hold dear in Malta.”

Locals have also taken to social media to express their displeasure, with many calling for a formal protest or diplomatic response.

“This is not the first time we’ve seen such behaviour from Israeli officials,” one user commented. “It’s high time our government takes a stand.”

As of now, there has been no official response from the Israeli government regarding the incident.