15 Foreign Women Volunteers Allege Sexual Assault By Israeli Soldiers During Gaza Aid Mission

Rome: 430 foreign volunteers carrying food and water for Palestinians in Gaza were stopped by the Israeli Navy in international waters on Tuesday. These people aboard 50 small ships were associated with human rights organizations and NGOs from many countries. The allegations made by these people after being released from custody are shocking.

What allegations were made after the release?

Those released say they were abused, insulted and severely beaten in Israeli custody. 15 women activists have made serious allegations of sexual harassment and even rape. Many people suffered so many injuries that they had to be admitted to hospital. Fractures were also found in many hands and legs. Activists said that they were beaten after being locked in rooms made in containers.

What does Israel have to say on this?

The jail where these people were kept has denied all the allegations. Israel says no crimes were committed in detention. But a video has surfaced in which these people have been handcuffed and made to kneel on the ground. Israeli Internal Security Minister Itamar Ben Givir is seen making fun of him in that video. After this video, Israel was criticized all over the world.

How did the countries of the world react?

After the video went viral, PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday ordered the release of all 430 people and sent them to Turkey, Italy and other countries. Germany has called it a serious matter. The German government has received complaints from many of its citizens alleging assault, kidnapping and sexual crimes. Germany said that now legal action will be taken. Italy also said it would investigate the allegations and was considering banning Minister Ben Givir.

What did the women activists say?

The 15 women who were released reported that they suffered severe sexual abuse and rape while in custody. Male activists also spoke of being beaten badly. Everyone has the same allegation that they were killed by locking them in a container.

What will happen next now?

Countries like Germany and Italy are now preparing to take legal action on the complaints of their citizens. Human rights organizations have also talked about raising their voices against Israel in international forums. Israel is currently denying the allegations, but the video and statements of 430 people have escalated the matter.