Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, which attempted to breach Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza, have reported severe mistreatment by Israeli forces. The flotilla, consisting of 50 boats, was intercepted in international waters, approximately 250 miles off the coast of Israel. The activists, along with journalists and an Italian lawmaker, were transferred to military vessels and taken to Ashdod port in southern Israel, where they claim they were held in containers and subjected to physical abuse.

Allegations of Abuse

The activists described being punched, kicked, and dragged by their hair. They also reported being denied access to legal counsel and being forced to sign documents under duress. One activist recounted being beaten by soldiers wearing gloves with hardened plastic, resulting in a swollen eye. Another described being strip-searched and having personal items discarded.

According to the activists, the treatment worsened upon arrival at the detention ship, where they were allegedly forced to kneel in uncomfortable positions and subjected to further physical abuse. Some reported being struck with tasers and beaten by groups of soldiers as they passed through a container on the ship.

Response from Israeli Authorities

Israel’s far-right security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has faced international criticism after promoting a video of himself taunting the detained activists. Several countries have summoned Israeli envoys to express their concerns. However, Israeli authorities have denied the allegations of mistreatment, with a spokesperson for the Israeli Prison Service stating that the claims are “false and entirely without factual basis.”

Following their deportation from Israel, approximately 420 activists departed for Turkey, many wearing gray sweatsuits and Arab kaffiyehs. The activists maintain that their mission was purely humanitarian, aimed at delivering aid to Gaza, and had no political agenda.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.