Israel has dismissed allegations of mistreating climate activist Greta Thunberg and other Global Sumud flotilla members as brazen lies, but National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir expressed pride in their harsh detention conditions. The Swedish campaigner and more than 130 activists were arrested on Friday after their Gaza aid vessel was intercepted by the Israeli Navy. Most detainees were sent to Ketziot Prison in the Negev Desert before being deported to Turkey.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated on Sunday that all legal rights were upheld, and detainees refused expedited deportation while choosing to prolong their custody. Ben Gvir defended the treatment by arguing that terrorism supporters deserve terrorist conditions. Thunberg has met with Swedish embassy officials, but flotilla activists say she has not yet consulted with legal counsel. Activists and lawyers claim the detainees faced torture and abuse in custody.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated on Sunday that all legal rights were upheld, and detainees refused expedited deportation while choosing to prolong their custody. Ben Gvir defended the treatment by arguing that terrorism supporters deserve terrorist conditions. Thunberg has met with Swedish embassy officials, but flotilla activists say she has not yet consulted with legal counsel. Activists and lawyers claim the detainees faced torture and abuse in custody.
