GAZA( The COW News Digital) Israel has deported an additional 29 members of the Samoud Flotilla, which had been intercepted while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, foreign news agencies reported on Monday.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, the total number of released detainees has now reached 170 out of the approximately 450 activists initially taken into custody. Many of those released claim they were subjected to mistreatment, including physical abuse and denial of access to legal representation.
The ministry denied allegations of abuse, insisting that the detainees’ legal rights were respected. Officials acknowledged delays in deportation for some individuals who refused to sign expulsion documents but said these cases would be resolved within 72 hours.
Legal representatives of the flotilla members, however, accused Israeli authorities of mistreatment, including verbal harassment, physical assault, denial of medical care, and, in one case, forcing a Muslim woman to remove her hijab.
The Samoud Flotilla was part of a global convoy of 43 vessels carrying food and medicine intended for Palestinians in Gaza. The flotilla was intercepted by the Israeli Navy before reaching its destination, and hundreds of international activists were detained.
Among those who participated were high-profile figures, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, former Barcelona mayor Ada Colau, European Parliament member Rima Hassan, Pakistan’s former senator Mushtaq Ahmed, as well as volunteers from Brazil, Malaysia, France, and other countries.
The interception of the flotilla and subsequent detentions have drawn widespread criticism from human rights groups and governments worldwide. Observers say the treatment of detainees could further complicate ongoing international diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Israeli government maintains that the flotilla attempted to breach a naval blockade it considers essential for national security. Activists argue the mission was purely humanitarian, aimed at delivering aid directly to Gaza’s besieged population.
