Activists from Humanitarian Convoy Allege Poor Conditions in Israeli Custody
Loved ones of held campaigners from New Zealand have expressed concern about harsh treatment in confinement facilities, including limited availability to water and legal counsel.
Aid Convoy Participants Face Deportation
More than 70 participants from multiple countries are prepared to be expelled from the country, featuring 28 French nationals, 27 Greek citizens, fifteen Italian nationals, and nine Swedish citizens.
Relative Testimonies of Difficult Conditions
Samuel's father voiced grave apprehension about his son's situation, saying: "I'm very worried about Samuel, as he remains in a cell right now, in a restricted area packed with numerous individuals... he has been without water and legal representation."
Medical Issues and Handling
The sister of another detainee stated that her sister had experienced an injury to her upper body, though the relatives remained uncertain about the specifics of how it took place.
"I urge the government to respond and secure the return of our dear ones home secure and in healthy condition," the family member commented.
Political Responses
New Zealand's foreign ministry issued a declaration stating that a diplomatic representative in Israel had consulted the New Zealanders and that ongoing help would be provided in the near future.
At the same time, Israeli government officials has disputed allegations that some participants were prevented from seeing their lawyers and asserted that the constitutional protections of the individuals were being "completely protected."
Additional Reports of Harsh Conditions
Advocacy groups representing the held activists have reported that some of those in confinement have faced abuse and physical violence while in detention facilities.
- Refusal of medical care and necessary medicines
- In one case, a female detainee was forced to remove her religious garment
- Limited access to basic necessities
Political Positions
A prominent member of the country's Green Party, the politician, stated to a press conference that the held nationals were working to create a society "in which our humanity genuinely matters."
Simultaneously, the diplomat Winston Peters accused critics of "false indignation" and stated that participants of the humanitarian mission were "looking for publicity" and had been warned not to proceed with the expedition.
The head of government Christopher Luxon told the media that officials had conveyed "forcefully to the Israeli government" that the security of nationals was paramount.
Yet, the official refused to condemn the country's interception of the convoy because there were "viewpoints on each side."