DaysofPal – Adalah said its legal defense team, supported by lawyers and volunteers, had provided legal consultations to hundreds of detainees from the “Freedom Flotilla” and the “Global Sumud Flotilla” inside Ashdod Port, amid strict Israeli restrictions that hindered access to all those being held.
The center stated that its legal team documented testimonies from several participants who reported being subjected to severe violence, injuries, and sexually degrading treatment during arrest and transfer operations. According to Adalah, all detainees underwent preliminary procedures before Israeli immigration authorities, while most were later transferred to Ketziot Prison.
It added that the testimonies collected revealed systematic violations of legal procedures, alongside widespread physical and psychological abuse carried out by Israeli authorities against the flotilla participants.
According to the center, the legal team received multiple consistent accounts alleging excessive force during the interception of the boats and the transfer of detainees, resulting in serious injuries. At least three participants were reportedly taken to the hospital before being returned to detention.
Lawyers also documented dozens of cases involving detainees suspected of suffering broken ribs and breathing difficulties. Testimonies further described the repeated use of electric shock devices and rubber bullets during transfers onto Israeli military vessels.
Adalah said detainees were subjected to degrading treatment inside the port area, where they were allegedly forced to walk while bent fully forward as guards pushed them violently. Some were also reportedly made to kneel for extended periods aboard the boats.
The center noted that the abuses extended beyond physical violence to include insults, incitement, and sexually charged harassment. Several female participants also reported having their hijabs forcibly removed.
Adalah confirmed that it continues to monitor the conditions of the detainees, who are expected to appear before an Israeli judicial authority on Thursday to review the continuation of their detention ahead of possible deportation proceedings. The organization stressed that it would seek to attend the hearings to provide legal representation.
The center renewed its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all participants in the two flotillas, arguing that their detention was carried out unlawfully.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=74797
