Activists Allege Mistreatment Following Israeli Detention of Gaza Flotilla

Activists detained by Israel after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza have reported mistreatment during their detention. Among those detained was Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, who, according to fellow activists, faced particularly harsh treatment.

The flotilla, comprising approximately 42 boats and over 450 activists, was intercepted by the Israeli Navy earlier this week. Following the interception, more than 130 activists were deported, with 137 arriving in Turkey on Saturday. Among them were 36 Turkish nationals and citizens from various countries, including the United States, Italy, and Malaysia.

Two activists, Hazwani Helmi from Malaysia and Windfield Beaver from the United States, alleged that Thunberg was mistreated during her detention. Helmi stated that detainees were treated "like animals," lacking access to clean food and water, and having their medications confiscated. Beaver described Thunberg as being "treated terribly" and "used as propaganda," alleging she was forced to wear an Israeli flag.

Italian journalist Saverio Tommasi, upon returning to Rome, recounted that Israeli soldiers withheld medicines and treated prisoners "like monkeys." He claimed that detainees' medications were confiscated, including those for heart disease and asthma. Tommasi also alleged that Thunberg was singled out, with her arms tied and an Israeli flag placed next to her, describing it as a form of mockery.

In response to these allegations, Israel's Foreign Ministry denied any mistreatment, stating that all detainees' legal rights were "fully upheld." National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed pride in the treatment of the detainees, referring to them as "supporters of terrorism" and asserting they received conditions appropriate for terrorists.

The flotilla's interception and subsequent allegations have drawn international attention, with various governments expressing concern over the treatment of their nationals. Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani instructed the Italian Embassy in Tel Aviv to ensure that the remaining Italian detainees are treated with respect for their rights.