GENEVA: The United Nations on Wednesday called on Israel to “immediately and unconditionally” release two activists detained after a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla was intercepted at sea, while also demanding an investigation into what it described as “disturbing accounts” of severe mistreatment.
According to the UN Human Rights Office, Saif Abukeshek and Thiago de Avila — members of the Global Sumud Flotilla — were apprehended in international waters and subsequently transferred to Israel, where they remain in custody without formal charges.
“Israel must immediately and unconditionally release Global Sumud Flotilla members Saif Abukeshek and Thiago de Avila, who were detained in international waters and brought to Israel where they continue to be held without charge,” UN human rights spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said in an official statement.
He stressed that acts of solidarity aimed at delivering humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza should not be criminalised. “It is not a crime to show solidarity and attempt to bring humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population in Gaza, who are in dire need of it,” he added.
The UN rights office also raised alarm over allegations that the two detainees were subjected to severe abuse during and after their detention.
Al-Kheetan called for a thorough and transparent investigation into these claims, insisting that any individuals found responsible must be held accountable under international law.
“Disturbing accounts of severe mistreatment of Abukeshek and de Avila must be investigated, and those responsible must be brought to justice,” he said.
Beyond the individual cases, the UN criticised Israel’s broader detention practices, particularly the use of what it described as “arbitrary detention” and broadly interpreted terrorism-related legislation. Such measures, the office said, are inconsistent with established international human rights standards.
The statement also renewed calls for Israel to lift its long-standing blockade on the Gaza Strip and to allow the unhindered entry of humanitarian aid in quantities sufficient to meet the needs of the civilian population.
The Global Sumud Flotilla’s Spring 2026 mission was launched with the stated aim of breaking the blockade and delivering essential supplies to Gaza.
However, Israeli forces intercepted the convoy late on April 29 near the coast of Crete. Reports indicate that the vessels were seized in international waters, approximately 600 nautical miles from Gaza and only a short distance from Greek territorial waters.
A total of 177 activists were detained during the operation. While many were later released, Abukeshek and de Avila were among those reportedly transferred to Israel and held for further questioning.
According to various accounts, the two men were subjected to physical abuse and intimidation, including alleged death threats during interrogation — claims that have intensified calls for independent scrutiny. Israel has maintained a blockade on Gaza since 2007, citing security concerns.
However, international organisations and humanitarian agencies have repeatedly warned that the restrictions have had devastating consequences for the enclave’s 2.4 million residents, pushing large segments of the population towards severe food insecurity.
The situation has further deteriorated since the escalation of hostilities in October 2023, with ongoing military operations causing widespread casualties and destruction across the territory, exacerbating what aid groups describe as a deepening humanitarian crisis.
