Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, intercepted by Israeli forces while attempting to breach the naval blockade of Gaza, have reported severe mistreatment. The flotilla, consisting of 50 boats, was stopped in international waters, 250 miles from Israel’s coast. Activists, journalists, and an Italian lawmaker were transferred to military vessels and detained at Ashdod port.

Allegations of Abuse

Activists describe being subjected to physical assaults, including beatings, Tasers, and attack dogs. Zeynel Abidin Ozkan, a Turkish flotilla board member, recounted being held in a container and hearing others being assaulted. He reported being denied contact with legal or embassy representatives and being forced to sign documents under duress.

Christopher Boren, an activist from Hawaii, described being beaten by Israeli forces upon arrival at Ashdod port. Italian journalist Alessandro Mantovani detailed being blindfolded and restrained in uncomfortable positions, with further violence occurring during detention. Greek activist Yiannis Atmatzidis reported similar treatment, including being struck with a Taser and beaten.

International Response

Israel’s far-right security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, faced international condemnation after promoting a video of himself taunting detained activists. France has banned Ben-Gvir from entering its territory, citing his behavior as “unspeakable.” Several countries have summoned Israeli envoys to express their concerns over the treatment of the detainees.

Israel has denied the allegations of mistreatment, with a spokesperson for the Israeli Prison Service stating the claims are “false and entirely without factual basis.” Despite this, the incident has sparked global outrage, with calls for accountability and respect for human rights.

Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.