New York Times exposé on flotilla activists: 'I couldn't bear the screams'

A New York Times investigation reveals testimonies from Gaza-bound flotilla activists about physical and psychological trauma from their detention in Israel. 22 activists allege physical assault, 7 were hospitalized. Israel denies the claims.

A New York Times investigation, published today, reveals testimonies from activists who took part in the flotilla to Gaza in May, alleging that their detention by Israel left them with physical and psychological trauma. The investigation is based on interviews with 24 activists and medical documents from Australia, France, Italy, and Turkey. 22 activists claimed they experienced physical assault, and seven were hospitalized after their release. The activists describe a pattern of abuse, from aboard Israeli vessels to on Israeli soil. Among the testimonies: a Belgian captain who described being kicked, a French nurse who suffered a fractured vertebra, and an Australian activist who alleged sexual assault. The investigation highlighted that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir walked among the detainees. Israel denied the allegations and clarified that the detainees were treated in accordance with the law.