Several activists who took part in a humanitarian flotilla mission to Gaza have accused Israeli authorities of abuse and mistreatment after their boats were intercepted at sea earlier this week.
The group, made up of international activists, journalists, and aid workers, was trying to deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza and protest against the ongoing blockade. But before the flotilla could reach the Palestinian territory, Israeli forces stopped the vessels and detained many of the passengers.
Now, after being released and deported, some activists are speaking publicly about what they say happened during their time in custody.
A number of former detainees claimed they were physically assaulted, threatened, and treated harshly during interrogations. Some said they were forced into humiliating strip searches, while others alleged they were denied proper food, medical care, and access to lawyers for long periods.
More serious allegations also emerged from the group. Organisers of the flotilla said several activists reported cases of sexual abuse and assault during detention. The accusations have shocked supporters of the mission and sparked calls for an independent international investigation.
Many of the activists appeared emotional while describing their experiences after arriving back in their home countries. Some showed bruises and injuries during press conferences and interviews with local media.
One European activist said detainees were kept in overcrowded rooms for hours and were constantly intimidated by guards. Another claimed some prisoners were mocked and verbally abused during questioning.
The Israeli government has strongly denied all accusations. Israeli officials said security forces acted according to the law and insisted detainees were treated properly throughout the process. Authorities also rejected claims of sexual assault and torture.
Still, the allegations have caused growing international concern. Human rights groups and several politicians in Europe have demanded a transparent investigation into what happened after the flotilla was intercepted.
The incident has also brought renewed attention to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Activists involved in the mission said their goal was to draw global attention to shortages of food, medicine, and basic supplies inside the territory.
This is not the first time a flotilla heading toward Gaza has been stopped by Israeli forces. Similar missions over the years have often ended in detentions, diplomatic tensions, and international criticism.
Despite the controversy and the trauma many activists say they experienced, organisers behind the latest flotilla mission say they will continue campaigning for humanitarian access to Gaza.
For many supporters, the mission was about more than delivering aid. They say it was also meant to send a message that the suffering of civilians in Gaza should not be ignored by the international community.
