Istanbul: Sumeyye Sena Polat, a Turkish activist aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, recounted her detention experience by Israeli forces, emphasizing that it pales in comparison to the suffering endured by imprisoned Palestinians in Gaza. The flotilla aimed to break Israel's blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, Polat shared that she was illegally detained and held at Negev Prison, the closest Israeli facility to Gaza. She described the ill-treatment faced by detainees and the poignant memories captured on the prison walls. "In my cell, there was a Qibla; a little bird in a cage indicated the direction. There was life inside the cells-souvenirs and memories," Polat noted.

Highlighting the global focus, she stated, "All eyes are not on the Flotilla or anywhere; all eyes are on Gaza. We should not stop until a ceasefire happens."

Polat criticized Israel's far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, labeling him 'cowardly' for hiding behind security personnel amidst chants of "Free Palestine." She expressed that detainees faced verbal harassment, were denied water for two days, and lacked access to necessary medication.

Despite the ordeal, Polat stressed that their suffering is minimal compared to that of Palestinian prisoners. "Our eyes must remain on Gaza and on them. God willing, we will continue until a ceasefire is achieved," she declared.

The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of activists from over 50 countries, was intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters. The operation resulted in the detention of more than 470 activists. The flotilla sought to challenge the blockade of Gaza, which has been in place for nearly 18 years.

Since October 2023, Israeli military actions have claimed the lives of over 67,000 Palestinians in Gaza, a majority of whom are women and children. The ongoing conflict has led to severe humanitarian crises, with starvation and diseases rampant in the enclave.