Summary
Several international activists involved in a Gaza aid flotilla reported being mistreated by Israeli guards during detention. The activists were intercepted by Israeli forces while trying to break a naval blockade of Gaza. Israel's Foreign Ministry and a government official responded differently to these allegations.
Key Facts
- Approximately 450 activists involved in the Gaza aid flotilla were detained by Israeli forces.
- Activists claimed mistreatment during detention, including harassment and violence, and had weapons pointed at them.
- Key figures detained included Greta Thunberg, Nelson Mandela’s grandson, and European lawmakers.
- An Italian journalist stated that Israeli soldiers withheld medicines and mocked the detained activists.
- Reports included claims of intimidation with dogs and gun laser sights, and activists were forced to stay in stressful conditions like kneeling for hours.
- Israel’s Foreign Ministry denied mistreatment claims, calling them lies, while a government minister expressed pride in the handling of detainees.
- The flotilla aimed to break the naval blockade of Gaza and deliver symbolic aid.
