Herman Budiyanto Weeps, Says His Suffering is Nothing Compared to Palestinians'

JAKARTA – Indonesian activist Herman Budiyanto, representing citizens of Indonesia (WNI) involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, has alleged that participants were subjected to torture while detained by Israeli military forces (IDF). Herman stated that violence occurred from the interception process through the four-day detention period. He described the treatment as extremely brutal and inhumane. ‘We confirm that the IDF’s torture is real, extremely cruel and brutal. From the abduction process through the lengthy four-day period of torture,’ Herman said at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Cengkareng, Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday (24 May 2026). Herman reported that participants suffered broken ribs, arms, legs, and gunshot wounds. ‘Many sustained severe injuries: broken ribs, arms, legs, noses, and gunshot wounds,’ he added. In addition to physical violence, Herman alleged sexual harassment of both male and female participants during detention. ‘Many cases of sexual harassment were inflicted on both men and women during the prolonged ordeal,’ he said. Herman also described the detention conditions as inhumane. ‘We were treated like animals. We had to crawl on our knees, keep our heads bowed, and avoid eye contact. We slept on the wet floor without blankets or pillows,’ Herman said. Despite this, Herman stated that the experience did not make them feel they were the most significant contributors to Palestine’s cause. He argued that Palestinians’ suffering far exceeds their own. ‘Our brothers and sisters in Palestine suffer far more than us. We are but scattered dust,’ Herman said, weeping. He expressed hope that the experience would strengthen international solidarity for Palestine’s independence. ‘May our prayers serve as some righteous deeds to absolve our sins and bring benefit to Palestine, achieving its freedom,’ he added.