Nine Indonesians Released from Israeli Detention Return Home

Tangerang (ANTARA) – Nine Indonesian citizens detained by Israeli authorities have returned home via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta) in Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday afternoon.

The nine Indonesians, who were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 mission to Gaza, endured a lengthy journey after being released from Israeli detention. They were previously evacuated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through Indonesian diplomatic missions as part of protective measures for Indonesian citizens.

During their return journey, the citizens were flown on Emirates Airlines from Istanbul to Dubai at 19:35 local time on Saturday (23 May), then transferred to Jakarta via Dubai at 04:10 on Sunday (24 May), arriving in Indonesia at 15:30 WIB.

Foreign Minister Sugiono attended the welcome ceremony for the returnees, expressing gratitude to all involved agencies in securing their release.

“Today, we welcome human rights activists who were detained by the Israeli military. They are now safe,” Foreign Minister Sugiono stated during a press conference.

He confirmed that the Indonesian government ensured the safety of the nine volunteers who were part of the humanitarian flotilla to Gaza.

“Thank you to the President and the DPR for their support in securing our citizens’ release. We also extend our thanks to the governments of Turkey, Jordan, and Egypt for their assistance in repatriating and welcoming our compatriots,” he said.

Sugiono reiterated Indonesia’s strong condemnation of the violence inflicted by Israeli personnel on the detained Indonesians during the GSF 2.0 convoy’s interception earlier this week.

He described the mistreatment of human rights activists as inhumane, a violation of international law, and contrary to humanitarian principles.

“Indonesia once again condemns Israel’s treatment of our citizens. This is a clear breach of international law, as civilians were providing humanitarian aid to Palestinians,” he added.

Upon arriving in Istanbul, the nine participants underwent further checks, including testimonies, visa procedures, and health examinations by Turkish authorities, before returning home.

Indonesian Ambassador to Turkey, Achmad Rizal Purnama, noted these procedures.

The nine Indonesians detained by Israeli forces reportedly suffered physical abuse, including being beaten, kicked, and electrocuted while in custody.