Israel deported 11 Australian activists who were detained while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud flotilla. The activists were transferred by bus to Ramon airport in southern Israel and flown to Istanbul, Turkey, where Australian consular officials were to assist them.
The Australians — Neve O’Connor, Sam Woripa Watson, Anny Mokotow, Isla Lamont, Juliet Lamont, Surya McEwen, Zack Schofield, Dr Bianca Pullman-Webb, Gemma O’Toole, Violet Coco, and Helen O’Sullivan — had been held since their boats were intercepted on Monday. Their families expressed relief but also anger over their treatment.
Joanne Jaworowski, mother of Zack Schofield, said she was relieved but had received no information about his welfare. Jacinta McEwen, mother of Surya McEwen, said they were “overcome with relief” but angry about the circumstances.
Adalah, an Israeli human rights group supporting the flotilla, reported systemic violations of due process and widespread physical and psychological abuse by Israeli authorities, including allegations of sexual harassment and humiliation. The group said dozens had suspected broken ribs and three activists were hospitalised before release.
The deportation followed global condemnation of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who posted a video showing bound activists kneeling with their foreheads to the ground. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called the images “shocking and unacceptable.” Israeli Ambassador Hillel Newman condemned Ben-Gvir’s actions, stating they were “disgraceful” and not reflective of Israel’s government.
