Human Rights Violations Alleged Following Interception of Global Sumud Flotilla
International activists detained after Israel intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla in early October 2025 have reported serious allegations of physical abuse, psychological torture, and inhumane conditions during their detention, reports 24brussels.
The flotilla, which comprised 42 vessels carrying humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip, was halted in international waters by Israeli naval forces. This operation led to the arrest of over 450 activists from more than a dozen countries, marking a significant escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Among those taken into custody were 21 Spanish citizens who returned to Madrid and publicly condemned the severe treatment they experienced. Activists recounted a systematic effort by Israeli authorities to dehumanize them. One activist noted, “A fellow activist said if we were Palestinians, we would have been killed by now, which reflects the brutal reality.”
The Spanish detainees spoke of relentless sleep deprivation, denial of medical care—including essential medications, restricted access to potable water, and exposure to racial slurs. They reported wearing the same clothes from the moment of their arrest, due to refusals to provide replacements, and having access only to contaminated drinking water.
Rafael Borrego, one of the Spanish detainees, detailed a visit by Israeli extremist Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to their detention center, reportedly at Ketziot prison in the Negev desert—known for its harsh conditions towards Palestinian prisoners. “We were handcuffed for seven hours, sitting on asphalt at night while Ben-Gvir gave us a lecture. Guards laughed at us and treated us worse than animals,” Borrego recounted. Despite the adverse conditions, the activists reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for Palestine.
Italian journalist and activist Saverio Tommasi characterized the ordeal as “torture and a blatant denial of human rights.” He detailed how guards confiscated crucial inhalers and medication for chronic conditions, forcing detainees into constant movement and interrogation while intimidating them with laser sights. Another Italian participant, Paolo de Montis, drew parallels between these tactics and Nazi-era psychological abuse, warning of the dangerous precedent it sets.
Prominent activist Greta Thunberg reportedly faced both physical and psychological mistreatment, including dehydration and living conditions rife with bedbugs. Sources indicated she was subjected to humiliation, being forced to kiss and hold an Israeli flag while handcuffed—a gesture interpreted as psychological torture aimed at undermining morale.
Human rights organizations have condemned the treatment of the flotilla detainees. A legal team representing the Global Sumud Flotilla and advocacy group Adalah filed reports denouncing Israeli authorities for systematic violations of international law and unlawful detention. Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders reiterated these concerns, calling for immediate investigations, respect for detainees’ rights, and their safe release.
Activists reported being forced to kneel with their hands bound for extended periods, kicked during rest, and deliberately deprived of food and water for up to 40 hours. Many detailed attempts by Israeli soldiers to provoke psychological breakdowns through isolation, verbal abuse, and public humiliation.
Governments from several countries, including Spain, Italy, and Sweden, have expressed alarm over the abuse allegations. The Spanish Foreign Ministry confirmed the return of 21 nationals and condemned their treatment. Spanish MP Juan Bordera likened the repression experienced to historical tortures inflicted under authoritarian regimes, emphasizing the necessity for accountability.
Former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, upon her return from Israel, condemned the alleged “abuse and mistreatment” of the Global Sumud Flotilla activists. She vowed to take action and mobilize support against what she called a “neo-fascist terrorist state” in Israel.
The Israeli government has dismissed the allegations of mistreatment. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the claims as “baseless propaganda,” while Minister Ben-Gvir expressed pride in the detention procedures, justifying the harsh conditions by branding the detainees as “terrorists.” This response has heightened diplomatic tensions with several involved nations.
The Global Sumud Flotilla aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza amid nearly two years of conflict and blockade. Testimonies from activists indicate a concerted effort by Israeli forces to quash dissent and intimidate those challenging the blockade through peaceful means.
The revelations of torture and abuse have ignited protests and solidarity marches globally, including massive demonstrations in Istanbul, reinforcing calls for an end to the Gaza siege and respect for international humanitarian law.
The accounts from the Spanish and international activists detained following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla underscore grave human rights abuses by Israeli forces. Their testimonies carry urgent significance in the global demand for justice and an instantaneous cessation of the repression experienced by the Palestinian people and their supporters worldwide.