Global Sumud Flotilla activists allege police beatings in Spain and torture by Israeli forces

Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla were met with force by Spanish police at Bilbao Airport on 24 May 2026, where officers used batons and arrested several members after a clash with supporters. The regional Basque police (Ertzaintza) detained four individuals on charges of serious disobedience and assault on officers, prompting an internal investigation.

The same group, which had been intercepted by Israeli commandos in international waters earlier that week, reported extensive abuse while in Israeli custody. Hundreds of activists, including nationals from Canada, France, the United Kingdom and Italy, described physical beatings, broken bones, and at least 15 incidents of sexual violence, with some requiring intensive medical care. Israeli authorities denied the allegations, stating that detainees were treated in accordance with the law. The reports have drawn condemnation from foreign ministries, notably Canada’s, and have heightened diplomatic tension between Israel and Spain, which has called for EU action against Israel.