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May 25, 2026 – Palestine –
Activists involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla say they experienced severe mistreatment after Israeli forces intercepted their Gaza-bound vessels in international waters, sparking growing international criticism and renewed scrutiny over Israel’s enforcement of the naval blockade on Gaza.
The flotilla, made up of around 50 boats carrying hundreds of volunteers from dozens of countries, had set sail with the stated aim of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenging the blockade. Israeli forces stopped the convoy at sea earlier this month and detained more than 400 participants before transferring them to facilities in Israel.
Following their release and deportation, several activists alleged they were subjected to beatings, intimidation, humiliation, and sexual abuse while in custody. Testimonies collected by legal groups and international media described detainees being restrained, placed in overcrowded containers, denied adequate food and water, and exposed to physical violence during interrogations and transport.
One activist interviewed after returning home said the detention conditions amounted to psychological and physical torture. Others claimed detainees were threatened, strip-searched, and assaulted while being held aboard Israeli military vessels and later in detention centers. Organizers from the Global Sumud Flotilla said they documented multiple allegations of sexual violence and abuse involving participants from different countries.
Israeli authorities rejected the accusations, insisting military personnel acted according to official procedures and treated detainees appropriately. Israeli officials defended the interception as part of efforts to enforce what they described as a lawful naval blockade on Gaza.
The incident triggered diplomatic reactions across several countries whose citizens participated in the mission. Officials in Spain, Australia, Ireland, Italy, and other European states criticized the treatment of activists and demanded explanations from Israel. Footage showing detainees being mocked during custody also fueled international outrage and condemnation from human rights advocates.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Adalah, called for independent investigations into the allegations and urged governments to ensure accountability for any violations committed during the operation.
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