Activists from the Gaza flotilla have revealed wounds suffered during detention by Israeli forces, with the first images showing cuts and bruises on their bodies. One activist was photographed walking topless through Istanbul airport, displaying cuts and bruises on his back while flashing a peace sign. The Global Samud Flotilla, consisting of 50 boats carrying aid to Gaza, was intercepted by Israeli forces on Monday. All 428 participants from 40 different countries were detained and held until their deportation today.
Details of Detention
Earlier video released by Israel showed protesters handcuffed behind their backs, forced to kneel face down on the floor in rows. Israel's national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, was seen smirking and taunting detainees, telling them they should be imprisoned for a very long time. One handcuffed Irish woman, identified by activists as Caitriona Graham, shouted 'Free Palestine' at Ben Gvir but was quickly subdued, her head forced to the floor as the minister was ushered away smiling. After diplomatic intervention led to her release, she was filmed shouting 'Free Palestine' again while hugging another activist.
Official Reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that while Israel has every right to stop 'provocative flotillas of Hamas terrorist supporters,' the way Ben Gvir treated the activists 'is not in line with Israel's values and norms.' A spokesperson for the flotilla argued there is no legal basis for the arrests, as participants were attempting to deliver humanitarian aid. The Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland confirmed that officials are actively monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant authorities. Meanwhile, the Israeli Foreign Ministry described the flotilla as a 'provocation and a search for publicity,' claiming no aid was on board. It added that the purpose of the flotilla was to serve Hamas and divert attention from Hamas's refusal to disarm, obstructing progress on President Trump's peace plan.
