Geneva: Swiss and Spanish activists, who were part of an international flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, have raised serious allegations of inhumane treatment during their detention by Israeli authorities. The flotilla, organized under the Global Sumud Coalition, was intercepted at sea as it tried to challenge Israel's longstanding naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.
Nine Swiss nationals who have since returned to Switzerland described harrowing conditions while in Israeli custody. They alleged being deprived of sleep, food, and water, and reported instances of physical abuse including being beaten and kicked. Several activists also claimed they were confined in small cages, intensifying concerns over their treatment. Similar accounts have emerged from Spanish activists, with lawyer Rafael Borrego recounting being blindfolded, dragged on the ground, and subjected to physical assault. He described the treatment as "inhumane" and deeply traumatic.
Responding to the allegations, a spokesperson from Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs categorically denied any mistreatment. The official statement asserted that all detainees’ legal rights were respected, and that adequate food, water, and medical care were provided during detention. Israeli Minister of Justice Yariv Levin confirmed that a total of 170 activists had already been deported, with an additional 200 expected to be expelled within the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, 309 detainees remain under Israeli custody, with authorities yet to disclose details regarding their treatment or detention conditions.
The flotilla aimed to spotlight the humanitarian situation in Gaza and challenge the Israeli naval blockade, a move that has long drawn criticism from international human rights groups. The allegations of abuse and harsh detention conditions have sparked diplomatic concern, with the Swiss and Spanish governments seeking clarification and demanding transparency regarding the welfare of their nationals.
The incident has also triggered international protests and public demonstrations, highlighting ongoing global discontent over the blockade and raising calls for accountability. Human rights organizations have urged Israel to allow independent observers to verify detainee conditions and ensure adherence to international law. As investigations continue, the flotilla episode has once again brought the complex humanitarian and political situation in Gaza into sharp international focus.