Key Facts

• Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Ávila were detained after Israeli forces stopped a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza in international waters near Greece.
• The Israeli court extended their detention by six days for further police questioning.
• Israel suspects Abu Keshek of links to a terrorist group and Ávila of illegal activities.
• Spain and Brazil have stated the detention is illegal and have demanded their release.
• Both activists have been on hunger strike for six days while in isolation and blindfolded during movements.
• Their lawyer said the detention conditions could amount to psychological torture.
• Israeli foreign ministry denies torture allegations and says the interception followed international law to maintain a blockade.
• The Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA), linked to the activists, is designated as a terrorist organization by Israel and the US.
• Organizers of the flotilla accuse Israel of piracy and reject the accusations against the activists.
• Brazil’s president condemned the detention as unjustifiable and a breach of international law.
• Spain also regards Abu Keshek’s detention as illegal.
• The UN has warned that Gaza’s humanitarian crisis continues despite a ceasefire agreed months ago.