Dozens of Global Sumud Flotilla activists subjected to harassment and rape by the IDF

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, ISTANBUL – The Global Sumud Flotilla committee has revealed alleged severe violence experienced by participants in the humanitarian mission after being detained by Israeli authorities. In addition to humiliation and physical violence, reports indicate cases of sexual harassment up to rape.

Republika journalist Bambang Noroyono, who was abducted, revealed that around 20 participants were questioned in Istanbul about rapes of the activists. ‘The victims are both women and men,’ he said reporting from Istanbul last night.

He noted that all participants underwent undressed searches by Israeli troops after being taken to Ashdod Port and then Ketziot Prison in the territory occupied by Israel. At that time there were many cases of sexual harassment by Israeli forces.

According to him, the victims of harassment include a number from European countries that have long been allies of Israel. Meanwhile, verbal violence during the proceedings was experienced by most of the abducted participants. Bambang Noroyono himself experienced verbal abuse but not sexual violence.

Luca Poggi, an Italian economist detained on the flotilla, said he gave similar testimony to Reuters. ‘We were stripped naked, thrown to the ground, kicked. Many of us were tasered, some experienced sexual harassment, and some were not given access to a lawyer.’

Italy’s prosecutors are examining possible crimes, including kidnapping, torture and sexual violence.

In a statement, the Global Sumud Flotilla committee said at least 15 cases of sexual violence, including rape, had occurred among flotilla participants.

Additionally, several participants were reported to have been shot at close range with rubber bullets. The committee also said dozens of people suffered broken bones due to the violence carried out by Israeli authorities.