Freed Gaza flotilla activists allege Israeli abuse including rape

Activists freed from Israeli custody after being detained on a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza reported severe abuse, including sexual assaults and rape, according to organizers. The Global Sumud Flotilla group claimed at least 15 cases of sexual abuse occurred, with detainees subjected to humiliating strip searches, groping, and forcible penetration on an Israeli landing craft repurposed as a makeshift prison. Twelve assaults were documented on a single vessel, including anal rape and penetration with a handgun, while several activists were hospitalized for injuries. Israeli authorities denied the allegations, stating detainees were treated in accordance with the law and medical care was provided professionally. The Israeli prison service dismissed the claims as false and without factual basis, referring Reuters inquiries to the military and foreign ministry. Meanwhile, Germany confirmed injuries among its nationals and called some accusations serious, while Italy’s prosecutors launched an investigation into possible crimes, including kidnapping and sexual assault. The flotilla, consisting of 50 ships, was intercepted by Israeli forces on Tuesday in international waters, resulting in the arrest of 430 people. The detention sparked international outrage after video surfaced of Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir mocking activists in prison. The U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric expressed concern over the reports, adding pressure on Israel to address the treatment of detainees. Organizers described detainees being beaten and confined in barbed-wire-enclosed shipping containers, with activists like Mi Hoa Lee from Spain reporting forced confinement in darkened spaces. The Israeli military did not respond to specific allegations, and Reuters received no reply after hours on Friday, a holiday in Israel. The incident further intensifies scrutiny over Israel’s handling of aid efforts to Gaza amid ongoing conflict.