Gaza: Youssef Ajissa, the head of the International Committee to Break the Siege on Gaza, has highlighted the testimonies from activists of the Global Sumud Flotilla who were subjected to violations by Israel during their detention after the interception of their Gaza-bound aid mission.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ajissa shared that activists reported experiencing "sexual violence, beatings, dragging, handcuffing, and blindfolding" at the hands of Israeli forces. Ajissa described these actions as a blatant violation of human dignity and indicative of the true nature of the Israeli entity's operations.

Ajissa expressed disappointment over the international community's response, particularly criticizing the European Union for its lack of condemnation and accountability measures against Israel. He urged for the imposition of sanctions on Israel, emphasizing that the absence of accountability has led to an escalation of such violations. Ajissa further depicted the Israeli actions as a continuation of the breaches against international law in Gaza, questioning the global community's silence.

The committee head also highlighted the ongoing detention of two activists, Brazilian Thiago Avila and Spanish-Swedish Saif Abu Keshek, calling for their release and protection for future humanitarian missions to Gaza. The flotilla's mission, aimed at breaking Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip, was halted by Israeli forces in international waters on April 29, resulting in the detention of 177 activists.

Reports indicate that Avila and Abu Keshek have endured severe physical abuse and death threats during their detention. The Israeli blockade, in place since 2007, has left Gaza's 2.4 million inhabitants in dire conditions. Israel's recent military operations in the region, beginning in October 2023, have further exacerbated the situation, with over 72,000 casualties and significant destruction reported.