A flotilla of more than 50 civilian vessels organized by pro-Palestinian activists, including the Global Sumud Flotilla, attempted to reach the Gaza Strip in 2026 carrying humanitarian aid including food and medical supplies. Organizers stated the objective was to deliver aid and challenge Israel’s maritime blockade of Gaza. Israeli authorities described the operation as a “PR stunt” and stated that the blockade was imposed for security reasons.
Israeli naval forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters and redirected the vessels to Ashdod Port in Ashdod, Israel. More than 400 activists from multiple countries were detained and later processed for deportation. Israeli authorities stated that detainees were held under legal procedures and that all individuals were treated in accordance with applicable regulations.
Organizers of the flotilla and legal advocacy groups, including Adalah, alleged that detainees were subjected to abuse during and after detention. These allegations included claims of physical violence, use of Tasers and rubber bullets during the interception, injuries such as suspected broken ribs, and reports of sexual harassment and humiliation. Some detainees were reported to have required hospital treatment. Israeli authorities denied these allegations and stated that detainees were held in accordance with the law and received appropriate treatment.
International governments, including Canada, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and others, issued statements expressing concern or condemnation regarding the treatment of detained activists. Some governments reported injuries among their nationals or sought further clarification from Israeli authorities, and some diplomatic summons and legal actions were reportedly initiated in response.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited a detention facility where some of the activists were being held. Video released from the site showed Ben-Gvir addressing and taunting detainees who were kneeling with their hands restrained. In the footage posted to social media, he also confronted a female aid worker, pushed her head down, and told her, “Welcome to hell. The summer camp is over.” The footage prompted international criticism and condemnation from multiple governments.
Following the incident, additional international backlash was reported, including diplomatic summons of Israeli ambassadors by several countries and reported travel bans imposed by some European states. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reportedly stated that the conduct was not consistent with Israel’s values.
Organizers and advocacy groups further alleged mistreatment of detainees during custody, including reports of physical abuse and injuries. These claims prompted calls for investigations by international and European authorities into potential violations of human rights and international law.
