5 October 2025. The Flotilla participants, who have been illegally detained by Israel since October 2nd, most of whom are currently held in harsh conditions in Ketziot prison in the Naqab (Negev) in southern Israel, are being subjected to abuse and mistreatment. These harsh conditions include physical violence, verbal harassment, the deprivation of adequate drinking water, food, sleep, and medication, as well as prolonged confinement in uncomfortable stress positions. Such treatment constitutes acts of ill-treatment and torture under international law.
Alexis Deswaef, one of the two vice-presidents of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) currently on hunger strike alongside Aziz Rhali, was injured by a water cannon used by the Israeli navy during an intimidation maneuver against the ship on which he was sailing. FIDH member, Adalah, is providing legal representation for hundreds of Flotilla detainees and has documented these incidents. Representatives of embassies and consulates who have met with their nationals, participants in the Flotilla, have also relayed these messages, and Flotilla participants who have already been deported are speaking with the media about this abuse, particularly that inflicted on Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
In addition, Israeli Minister of Internal Security Itamar Ben Gvir appeared on video on the evening of October 2nd, showing the detained members of the Flotilla, as he insulted them and accused them in Hebrew of being terrorists. Detainees were also presented with documents written in Hebrew, which they were ordered to sign. Those who refused to sign these documents continue to be detained.
FIDH condemns in the strongest terms the abduction of the Flotilla members and the mistreatment they are enduring. It calls for their immediate and unconditional release. The FIDH also calls for an end to the widespread use of inhumane treatment in Israeli detention facilities. Furthermore, it urges states, particularly those within the European Union, to recognise the systemic mistreatment institutionalised nature of torture in Israel and to address it accordingly.
FIDH condemns in the strongest terms the abduction of the Flotilla members and the mistreatment they are enduring. It calls for their immediate and unconditional release. The FIDH also calls for an end to the widespread use of inhumane treatment in Israeli detention facilities. Furthermore, it urges states, particularly those within the European Union, to recognise the systemic mistreatment institutionalised nature of torture in Israel and to address it accordingly.
As the genocide in Gaza continues despite recent agreements and instructions from the United States to cease hostilities, the mission of the Flotilla remains tragically relevant. Breaking the blockade, demanding a ceasefire, and ending the mass killing of Palestinians in Gaza are more urgent than ever. These are objectives that the allies and enablers of Israel have consistently and shamefully failed to achieve for nearly two years.