Israeli forces brutalize Gaza flotilla activists
Activists from a Gaza aid flotilla say Israeli forces beat, tortured, and sexually assaulted them in detention — a damning story for Israel and for Western governments staying silent.
- At least 15 activists report being raped or sexually assaulted while detained, and several were hospitalized.
- A doctor, journalist, and others describe being kicked, punched, tasered, stripped, held in stress positions, and denied food, water, and lawyers.
- Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir mocked the detainees on social media, posting "welcome to Israel."
- US cable news is largely ignoring the abuse, while pro-Israel money is also being blamed for shaping US politics, including the $16 million spent against Rep. Thomas Massie.
- The pattern matches earlier flotilla detentions, including Greta Thunberg's account of beatings and unsanitary conditions.
Outlook: Expect more public anger in Europe and growing pressure on Western governments to break with Israel, even as US media keeps downplaying the story.