Greta Thunberg tortured by Israel ?

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was among hundreds of international activists detained after Israeli naval forces intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla earlier this week, sparking global outrage and renewed scrutiny over Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory. The operation targeted the Global Sumud convoy, which consisted of around 39 to 40 vessels carrying more than 450 activists from over 30 countries, including lawmakers, human rights workers, and medical professionals. Following the interception, 137 activists, including nationals from Turkey, Italy, and other countries, were deported to Istanbul , while dozens of others remain in Israeli detention. The activists said the mission aimed to peacefully deliver humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies, to Gaza, which remains under a strict Israeli blockade.

Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla reportedly in international waters and escorted the vessels to the Israeli port of Ashdod. Detainees were processed and transferred to Ketziot Prison in the Negev Desert, a facility normally reserved for security detainees. Italian authorities confirmed that 26 of their nationals were aboard the flotilla; some have been repatriated while others remain in detention. Swedish authorities confirmed that consular access was granted to Thunberg and arrangements for her return were underway.

Several activists have described harsh conditions in Israeli custody. Malaysian activist Hazwani Helmi told, “It was a disaster. They treated us like animals.” American activist Windfield Beaver said Thunberg was “used as propaganda” and denied basic needs. Turkish activist Ersin Çelik alleged that Thunberg was dragged by her hair, beaten, and forced to kiss the Israeli flag, claims reported by multiple Turkish media outlets but not independently verified. Thunberg reportedly told Swedish diplomats that she suffered from rashes believed to be caused by bedbugs, dehydration, and prolonged periods sitting on hard surfaces. Human rights group Adalah claimed that detainees were zip-tied for up to five hours and denied sufficient food, water, and medical care.

Israeli officials rejected the allegations of mistreatment. The Foreign Ministry described them as “complete lies,” stating that all detainees were treated in accordance with the law and were given access to food, water, restrooms, and legal counsel. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir referred to the activists as “terrorists of the flotilla” and called for stricter treatment, while Israeli authorities argued that the interception was necessary to enforce a lawful naval blockade and prevent potential weapons smuggling.

The interception and the reported treatment of detainees prompted broad international condemnation. Amnesty International described the raid as a “brazen assault on a peaceful humanitarian mission” and called for the immediate release of detainees. Turkey lodged a formal protest, calling the operation a “hostile act,” while Spain, Switzerland, and Belgium urged Israel to respect international law. Protests also erupted in several cities, including Istanbul, Madrid, and Stockholm, demanding the release of activists and an end to the Gaza blockade.

While claims of mistreatment continue to circulate, independent verification remains limited. Israel denies all abuse allegations, and no impartial investigation has yet confirmed the more severe claims. Legal experts have also questioned the legality of the interception in international waters, with critics arguing that it violates freedom of navigation and humanitarian law, while Israel maintains the blockade is lawful.

As of Sunday, dozens of activists remain in Israeli custody, with further deportations expected in the coming days. Thunberg is expected to be among those released soon. The incident has intensified international attention on Israel’s policies in Gaza and raised renewed debate about the treatment of humanitarian activists in contested waters.