Freed Gaza flotilla activists allege Israeli abuse including rape
Organizers say activists detained on a Gaza aid flotilla faced severe abuse, including beatings and rape, while Israel's prison service denies the allegations
Organizers stated on Friday that activists released from Israeli custody after being detained on a flotilla trying to bring aid to Gaza were subjected to severe abuse. According to the organizers, several of the released individuals had to be hospitalized due to their injuries, and at least 15 of them reported experiencing sexual assaults, including rape, during their detention.[2]
The activists were part of the Global Sumud Gaza flotilla. Hundreds of these activists arrived in Turkey on Thursday after being deported from Israel. Upon their arrival, many of the returning activists alleged they had experienced abuse at the hands of Israeli forces, including beatings and sexual assault. Some of the activists were seen covered in bruises, while others had to be transported in wheelchairs or on stretchers.[1]
Israel's prison service has denied the allegations of abuse. The claims of physical and sexual violence made by the activists and organizers could not be independently verified.[2]
