Activists detained by Israeli forces after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza have reported abuse, including sexual assault and rape, organisers said on Friday. The Israeli prison service denied the allegations, which could not be independently verified by Reuters.
At least 15 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported by participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla, according to a Telegram post by organisers. They also said activists were shot with rubber bullets and suffered broken bones. Italy and Germany confirmed injuries among their nationals, with Italy investigating possible crimes of kidnapping and sexual assault.
Luca Poggi, an Italian economist detained on the flotilla, told Reuters on arrival in Rome: “We were stripped, thrown to the ground, kicked. Many of us were Tasered, some were sexually assaulted, and some were denied access to a lawyer.” A German foreign ministry spokesperson said consular officials reported that several German activists had injuries and were undergoing medical checks.
Israel’s prison service spokesperson said in a statement: “The allegations raised are false and entirely without factual basis. All prisoners and detainees are held in accordance with the law, with full regard for their basic rights.” The Israeli military referred queries to the foreign ministry, which directed them to the prison service.
The allegations follow the interception of 50 ships carrying 430 people in international waters on Tuesday. Western governments expressed anger after Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir posted a video mocking activists in prison. Italy said EU members were discussing imposing sanctions on Ben-Gvir.
