Greta Thunberg Faces Allegations of Mistreatment in Israeli Custody Following Flotilla Interception

Environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg has reported severe mistreatment while in Israeli custody after being detained during a humanitarian flotilla headed for Gaza. Correspondence reviewed by the Guardian reveals Thunberg's claims of infrequent access to food and water, as well as allegations that she was held in a cell infested with bedbugs. An email from the Swedish foreign ministry, shared with individuals close to Thunberg, mentioned that she experienced dehydration and had developed rashes, which she attributed to the unsanitary conditions of her cell. In a concerning development, another detainee alleged that Thunberg was forced to hold flags for photographs under questionable circumstances. The identity of the flags remains unspecified. The flotilla, named the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), consists of over forty vessels carrying humanitarian aid, attempting to breach the Israeli blockade of Gaza. Over the course of two days, Israeli forces intercepted all boats and detained every crew member on board, including Thunberg, who now joins 437 fellow activists, parliamentarians, and lawyers incarcerated at Ketziot prison, formerly known as Ansar III. This high-security facility predominantly houses Palestinian prisoners, including those accused of militant activities. Reports from the NGO Adalah indicate that the rights of the detained crew members have been significantly violated. They have allegedly faced denials of adequate food, water, sanitation, medication, and access to legal counsel, which raises significant concerns about their treatment and treatment standards in violation of international legal practices. Witness accounts describe instances of verbal and physical abuse endured by the activists. While visiting Ashdod, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar BenGvir labeled the detained activists as "terrorists," casting a harsh light on the government's stance towards individuals engaged in humanitarian efforts. BenGvir's remarks drew tension, as some activists were heard chanting "Free Palestine" in response. Itamar BenGvir, known for his extreme views, has publicly advocated for the incarceration of activists rather than their deportation. The legal team for the flotilla expressed their apprehensions regarding the treatment that detainees, especially repeat participants like Thunberg, may face during the legal process. This incident marks the second time Thunberg has been detained while participating in a flotilla, her first occurring earlier this year when she was also arrested and subsequently deported after another attempt to breach the blockade. Baptiste André, a French doctor who was part of the flotilla in June, reported witnessing Israeli authorities psychologically manipulate passengers, specifically targeting Thunberg by depriving her of sleep. As the situation unfolds, Thunberg remains determined not to sign any documents without a full understanding of their content as would-be allowed by her legal representatives. The Swedish official noted that efforts were made to ensure she has access to legal counsel. The Guardian has reached out to the Israeli Prison Service, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comments on these allegations, but they have yet to respond. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2