JOHANNESBURG (AP) - South African activists who were detained while attempting to breach Israel's blockade of Gaza have reported experiencing severe mistreatment at the hands of Israeli soldiers. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of 50 boats, was intercepted approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) off the coast of Israel as they aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
Upon their return to South Africa from Turkey, the activists were met by pro-Palestine supporters and family members. Many of them recounted harrowing experiences during their detention, claiming they were subjected to beatings, torture, and various forms of abuse during interrogations. Some activists alleged they were electrocuted when questioned about their involvement in the flotilla.
Faizel Moosa, one of the activists and a former anti-apartheid campaigner, described the conditions they faced while detained as intolerable. He noted that their treatment became especially harsh when Israeli soldiers realized they were from South Africa, a nation that has taken Israel to the International Court of Justice for allegations of genocide in Gaza. Moosa emphasized the lack of basic necessities during their detention, stating, "We were denied access to water for a while. The food they provided was not suitable for human consumption. We were also denied access to toilets for many hours, and when we protested, we were shot at with rubber bullets."
Moosa reflected on his past experiences during South Africa's struggle for liberation, declaring, "Having experienced detention under the apartheid regime, this was far worse. It just goes to show that this is what Palestinians go through on a daily basis." He highlighted the psychological and physical trauma faced by those detained, drawing parallels between their ordeal and the ongoing plight of Palestinians.
According to the activists, they spent several days at K'tziot prison, where they continued to face abusive treatment, including reports of electrocution. Activist Qutb Hendricks called upon the South African government to take a firm stance against Israel by prohibiting the sale of coal and other supplies to the country, urging a concerted effort to pressure Israel over its actions regarding the Palestinian territories.
In response to the allegations of mistreatment, the Israeli government has categorically denied the claims, labeling them as “false and entirely without factual basis.” This statement reflects the ongoing tension and conflict surrounding the issue of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the treatment of activists opposing the blockade.
The situation remains critical as activists and supporters continue to advocate for Palestinian rights and challenge the Israeli blockade, highlighting the struggles faced by those who attempt to deliver aid amidst the ongoing conflict.
