Brazilian Flotilla Activist Returns Home Alleging Torture by Israel
He alleged torture and abuse during 10 days in custody after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza aid flotilla carrying about 175 activists.
- On Monday, Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila returned to Sao Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport following 10 days of detention in Israel after participating in a Gaza aid flotilla.
- Ávila and Spanish national Abu Keshek participated in the second Global Sumud Flotilla launched from Spain on April 12 to deliver aid; Israeli forces intercepted the vessel and arrested both men while more than 100 other activists were sent to Crete.
- Upon arrival, Ávila alleged he suffered "all kinds of violations" and witnessed abuse of Palestinian prisoners, though Israel dismissed these torture claims through human rights group Adalah, stating all measures taken were lawful.
- Authorities released both men on Saturday and handed them to immigration authorities for deportation; Brazil and Spain have characterized the detention as unlawful.
- Ávila described his experience as kidnapping rather than imprisonment and publicly called for the defeat of "war criminals" including Netanyahu and President Donald Trump amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
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33 Articles
Mexican photographer Abril Rojas, a member of the recent flotilla with help for Gaza intercepted by Israel, claims that they suffered a “kidnapping” of more than a day by the Israeli Army. “The military took us to a warship and there began the aggressions and tortures, including the positions on their knees and with their hands on their heads for a long time,” the activist told in an interview with EFE from Mexico City. Israel held it two nights…
The pro-Palestinian Brazilian accused the State of Israel of committing “war crimes” and confirmed its determination to defend the Palestinian people.
Activist Alleges Torture by Israel, Calls for Sanctions
Brazilian activist Thiago Avila, deported from Israel, accuses Israeli forces of torture and witnessing abuses against Palestinian prisoners. Avila was part of a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. Both Spain and Brazil criticized the detention as unlawful. Avila demands international reaction against Israeli actions.
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