Activists deported from Israel after joining a Gaza aid flotilla reported mistreatment by guards. International participants in the Global Sumud Flotilla described harsh treatment following their detention. Israeli forces arrested about 450 people between Wednesday and Friday after intercepting boats attempting to breach a naval blockade of Gaza.
Italian journalist Saverio Tommasi said guards withheld medicines and mocked detained activists. Malaysian sisters Heliza Helmi and Hazwani Helmi reported drinking toilet water after being denied food for days. Activist Paolo De Montis said guards forced detainees to kneel for four hours with their hands secured by zip ties.
Israel's Foreign Ministry called the mistreatment allegations brazen lies. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed pride in the harsh conditions at Ketziot prison. The ministry said all detainees' legal rights were upheld and that activists refused to expedite their deportation.
Italian journalist Saverio Tommasi said guards withheld medicines and mocked detained activists. Malaysian sisters Heliza Helmi and Hazwani Helmi reported drinking toilet water after being denied food for days. Activist Paolo De Montis said guards forced detainees to kneel for four hours with their hands secured by zip ties.
Israel's Foreign Ministry called the mistreatment allegations brazen lies. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed pride in the harsh conditions at Ketziot prison. The ministry said all detainees' legal rights were upheld and that activists refused to expedite their deportation.
