Israel Foreign Ministry Mocks Flotilla Activists' 40 Bruises Claim as Abuse Allegations Mount
Updated
Updated · FRANCE 24 English · May 25
Israel Foreign Ministry Mocks Flotilla Activists' 40 Bruises Claim as Abuse Allegations Mount
2 articles · Updated · FRANCE 24 English · May 25
Israel's foreign ministry posted that flotilla activists had staged injuries for cameras, pointing to activist Nesrin Zeaiter appearing in a neck brace after detention and later returning home without it.
Global Sumud Flotilla said Zeaiter suffered a concussion and more than 40 bruises in custody, adding that a neck brace is standard precaution for a suspected cervical injury.
Multiple activists deported after Israeli detention have accused Israeli forces of abuse, torture and sexual violence, while an Israeli prison spokesperson told Reuters the allegations are false and entirely baseless.
The online mockery widened a diplomatic row already inflamed by Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's video taunting bound detainees; France has since barred him from entry.
Israel also mocked Spain over airport scuffles involving 6 returning activists, deepening friction with one of the loudest European critics of its Gaza war.
As Israel mocks activist injuries, who can verify the truth behind the widespread torture claims?
Will global sanctions against an Israeli minister change how detained activists are treated?
Are foreign security contracts, like Spain's with an Israeli firm, importing controversial policing tactics?