Flotilla detainees faced violence, sexual abuse at Ashdod Port: Adalah

The Palestinian legal aid group Adalah has presented deeply disturbing testimonies from participants of the recent flotilla, alleging severe violence, sexual abuse, and psychological torment at Ashdod Port. These accounts paint a grim picture of the treatment of activists, with documented injuries and reports of excessive force, including the use of tasers and rubber bullets.

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Almost all of the detainees are being transferred to Ketziot Prison, Adalah noted.

The involvement of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who was seen mocking and harassing the detained individuals, has drawn sharp criticism from both Israeli and international figures. This incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, highlighting a stark contrast in how human rights and the treatment of detainees are perceived.

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The violence towards the detainees led to serious and widespread injuries, including at least three people who were hospitalized and later released, Adalah said.

From our perspective, these allegations demand a thorough and transparent investigation. The reported abuses, if true, represent a grave violation of human rights and international law. The international community's condemnation underscores the seriousness of these claims and the need for Israel to uphold its obligations towards all individuals, regardless of their political stance.

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This included being forced to walk while completely bent forward as guards forcefully pushed their backs downward, the organization noted.