Freed Gaza flotilla activists allege Israeli abuse, including rape

On 22 May 2026, Gaza flotilla activists deported from Israel alleged that Israeli forces abused them in custody, including rape and sexual assault. Activists told outlets they were stripped, kicked and beaten, and one said “We were like animals”. Israel denied the claims.

French activists returned to Paris and described a violent detention, and German activists were reported partly injured. The BBC said backlash over the treatment was growing after the deportations.