Dutch Activists Accuse Israeli Troops of Sexual Violence in Gaza Flotilla

Seven Dutch participants of the Global Sumud aid flotilla, which set sail in April carrying humanitarian supplies to Gaza, say they will file criminal complaints with the Dutch Public Prosecutor over alleged sexual violence, assault, humiliation and torture by Israeli soldiers. According to the flotilla’s spokesperson, one activist was forced to undress, grabbed by his genitals and humiliated, while female participants were also compelled to strip. Medical files, forensic reports and X‑rays cited by the activists show serious injuries including broken ribs, nerve damage and other bodily trauma.

The activists were intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters, detained for hours, and taken to the port of Ashdod against their will. Detention conditions included prolonged kneeling with hands behind the back and reported injuries such as knocked‑out teeth. The organisation is receiving legal assistance from the Amsterdam law firm Prakken D'Oliveira Human Rights Lawyers. Israel’s Prime Minister Rob Jetten previously described the treatment of detainees as degrading, and a French anti‑terrorism prosecutor has opened a parallel investigation into possible war crimes involving French participants.