Global Sumud Flotilla Committee Reveals Israel Abuses Activists; Time to Step Up Pressure
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, TEL AVIV – The Global Sumud Flotilla Committee revealed that activists detained by Israeli forces were subjected to rough handling and intimidation after their ships were intercepted. They urged the world to step up pressure on the Zionist government to halt the torture.
In a latest statement to the families of participants, the committee said the volunteers were forced to lie prone, had their movements restricted, and were treated disproportionately even though they were unarmed civilian volunteers on a humanitarian mission.
“This is a serious situation that shows that even humanitarian solidarity is met with repression,” said the Global Sumud Flotilla Family and Friends Communications Team on Wednesday.
The committee also cautioned the families to beware of narratives, images, and information circulating from Israeli media and official sources. According to them, some information could be part of psychological warfare and propaganda to intimidate families, weaken public support, and undermine solidarity with Palestine.
Nevertheless, the committee affirmed that Israeli media will not be able to portray the sumud spirit or the resolve of the flotilla participants in the face of threats and pressure. The activists are said to have prepared themselves to face various challenging eventualities and to continue supporting one another during detention.
The Global Sumud Flotilla Committee assures that the participants are not alone. They are now being monitored and supported by international legal teams, human rights organisations, and volunteers from around the world.
“They joined this mission because they believe the people of Gaza should not have to endure suffering and isolation alone. They also believe humanity must be defended even though the risks are high,” the statement continued.
The family communications team also urged relatives of the participants to continue pressing their respective governments to ensure the safety, dignity, and welfare of the activists detained by Israel.
The committee’s statement was released following a post about the volunteers’ condition by right-wing Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. In the video, Ben-Gvir is seen approaching the activists who are kneeling.