Australian activists detained by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza on a flotilla have returned home, with organizers alleging abuse, sexual assaults, and beatings that hospitalized some detainees.

Juliet Lamont, an Australian documentary filmmaker, told Reuters she was dragged, sexually assaulted, and beaten during detention. “That was just the beginning of four days of absolute hell. I’ve looked into the eyes of the most soulless people in the universe, and nothing came back. These people need to be stopped,” Lamont said.

Another activist, Sam Woripa Watson, reported a fractured rib, bruises, and cuts. He also witnessed activists being Tasered, shot with rubber bullets, and subjected to stun grenades.

Eleven Australians were among 430 volunteers on 50 boats intercepted in international waters by Israeli forces last week. The flotilla, carrying aid for the besieged Gaza Strip, included people from 40 countries.

Organizers said at least 15 detainees reported sexual assault or rape. Malaysian officials announced preparations to launch legal proceedings against Israel, citing violations of international law. “We will not remain silent. We will not stop,” said Selangor Chief Minister Amirudin Shari.

Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir posted a video of blindfolded and bound activists kneeling, sparking global outrage. France barred Ben-Gvir from entering the country.

Foreign ministers of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey condemned Ben-Gvir’s actions as “appalling, degrading and unacceptable,” stating they violate international humanitarian and human rights law.

Source: www.aljazeera.com