According to a press release by the Global Sumud Flotilla, at least four participants reported sexual violence at the hands of Israeli soldiers, including anal penetration with a finger, forceful strikes to the genitals, and verbal sexual abuse.
Additional details of abuse and torture of the activists ⬇️
🚨 Flotilla Detainees Report Sexual Violence, Physical Abuse at Hands of Israeli Forces
The Global Sumud Flotilla released preliminary first-hand testimonies Thursday alleging a pattern of severe physical and sexual abuse against civilian participants following the Israeli military’s interception of the flotilla in international waters last week.
According to the press release, at least four participants reported sexual violence at the hands of Israeli soldiers, including anal penetration with a finger, forceful strikes to the genitals, and verbal sexual abuse.
Testimonies also describe deliberate deprivation of clothing, food, water, and bedding, as well as areas being flooded with water at night — leaving detainees in extreme physical distress.
Multiple participants suffered hypothermia and hyperthermia, the flotilla said.
179 participants were released to Greek authorities. Two — Saif Abukeshek and Thiago Ávila — remain detained at Israel’s Shikma prison and are reportedly on hunger strike. Israel has not responded to the allegations.