'We Were Tortured' Gaza Flotilla Activists Describe Israeli Treatment in Arrests
Summary
Activists trying to break Israel’s sea blockade of Gaza said Israeli forces beat, tortured, and sexually assaulted them after detaining their flotilla in international waters. Israel denies these claims and says detainees were treated according to the law, while some footage shows Israeli officials behaving provocatively toward activists.Key Facts
- The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) tried to deliver aid to Gaza but was stopped by Israeli naval forces near Cyprus in international waters.
- Activists reported severe beatings, torture, sexual assaults, and many injuries including broken ribs and use of Tasers.
- Israel’s Prison Service says detainees were treated lawfully with respect to their rights and proper medical care.
- A doctor on one boat said activists were roughly handled, forced into stress positions, and kept under duress.
- Over 50 boats with 438 people from more than 40 countries participated in the flotilla that left Turkey on May 14.
- Israel deported the activists, but one Israeli citizen participant remained in custody for a court hearing.
- Human rights groups claim activists suffered widespread physical abuse and humiliation by Israeli forces.
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the blockade but criticized a government minister for disrespectful behavior toward detainees.
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