Activists deported after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla described beatings, stress positions and other mistreatment in custody, allegations Israeli authorities denied as hundreds of participants returned to Turkey and Europe.
Organizers said about 430 people aboard more than 50 vessels were detained in international waters west of Cyprus on May 19. Adalah, an Israeli legal group representing detainees, reported widespread injuries including at least three hospitalizations and dozens of suspected broken ribs.
Released participants told reporters they were tasered, denied adequate water and forced into prolonged kneeling positions. Global Sumud Flotilla organizers said at least 15 people reported sexual assault or rape, though Reuters noted it could not independently verify those claims.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed all foreign activists had been deported and defended the naval blockade of Gaza. Britain, France and Portugal summoned Israeli envoys after National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir posted video taunting handcuffed detainees. Italian prosecutors were reportedly reviewing potential charges related to the interceptions.
About 420 activists flew to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines charter flights wearing grey sweatsuits, with some appearing to limp on arrival. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered expedited deportations after rebuking Ben-Gvir for posting taunting footage of kneeling detainees. Flotilla organizers said roughly 430 participants from more than 40 countries sailed from Turkey on May 14 before Israeli naval commandos intercepted the fleet.
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Sources:
https://www.democracynow.org/2026/5/22/headlines