ISTANBUL: The controversy surrounding Israel’s treatment of international activists intensified on Saturday as 137 detainees, part of the Global Sumud flotilla to Gaza, arrived back in Turkey. Among them were witnesses who claimed that Swedish climate icon Greta Thunberg endured humiliating and degrading treatment while in Israeli custody.
The flotilla, carrying over 450 activists on 40 vessels, had set sail in a bold attempt to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. Following their interception, detainees were taken into custody, sparking a wave of international condemnation.
At Istanbul Airport, returning activists spoke of harsh detention conditions. Hazwani Helmi of Malaysia and Windfield Beaver from the United States alleged that Thunberg was shoved, dragged, and forced to wear the Israeli flag. Other activists echoed claims that food and water were scarce, vital medicines were confiscated, and detainees were zip-tied and left kneeling for hours. Some even alleged that Thunberg was made to kiss the flag and paraded in front of others.
The accounts paint a grim picture: overcrowded cells, denial of legal counsel, and psychological humiliation aimed at breaking the morale of detainees. Al Jazeera and other outlets have reported similar testimonies, amplifying the global uproar.
Israel, however, has strongly rejected the allegations, with the foreign ministry branding them as “complete lies.” Officials insist detainees were kept “safe and in good health” with access to basic necessities and legal representation.
The return of the flotilla activists has reignited debates on Israel’s Gaza blockade, international humanitarian law, and the boundaries of protest movements. For many, the alleged mistreatment of Greta Thunberg—a globally recognised voice of conscience—has become symbolic of the broader struggle for justice in Palestine.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.