Swiss and Spanish activists from an international flotilla that tried to deliver aid to Gaza last week say they faced inhumane conditions while held by Israeli forces after their vessels were intercepted.
Among the nine members of the flotilla who returned to Switzerland, some reported sleep deprivation, lack of food and water, and physical abuse. They said they were beaten, kicked and locked in cages during their detention, according to a statement by their representatives.
Spanish participants described similar mistreatment upon arrival in Spain. "They beat us, dragged us along the ground, blindfolded us, tied our hands and feet, put us in cages, and insulted us," lawyer Rafael Borrego told reporters at Madrid’s airport.
Israel’s Minister of Justice, Yariv Levin, announced that 170 activists have been deported so far. Of the 309 still in custody, 200 are expected to be expelled within the next 24 hours.
Swedish activists added that climate campaigner Greta Thunberg was shoved and forced to wear an Israeli flag during her detention. Others said their food and water were withheld, and medication and personal belongings confiscated.
In response, Israel’s foreign ministry called the allegations "complete lies," insisting all detainees received access to water, food, restrooms and legal counsel, with their rights fully upheld.
The ministry also reported that one Spanish detainee bit a female medical worker at Ketziot Prison during a routine exam before deportation, causing minor injuries that were treated on site.
The Swiss Embassy in Tel Aviv visited the ten Swiss nationals still in custody, describing them as "in relatively good health, given the circumstances," and said it is working to secure their swift return.
Former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau, who was aboard the flotilla, acknowledged mistreatment but noted it pales in comparison to what Palestinian people endure daily.
Consular staff from several countries have visited detainees at the prison. More activists are expected to be released on Monday and transported to Athens.
Reference(s):
Gaza flotilla activists allege inhumane detention conditions in Israel
cgtn.com
