Seven Australian activists who were detained by Israeli authorities after being intercepted aboard a Gaza-bound aid flotilla have been released and deported to Jordan. The activists, who had been in custody since October 2, reportedly faced claims of verbal and physical abuse while detained.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it provided consular assistance to the detainees. A spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong welcomed their release, noting that all Australians involved were now safe. Among the released Australians were Juliet Lamont, Hamish Paterson, Surya McEwen, Abubakir Rafiq, Bianca Webb-Pullman, Cameron Tribe, and one additional unnamed individual.
The flotilla, part of the Global Sumud Movement, involved around 450 activists on 50 vessels attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. Israeli authorities labelled the activists as “provocateurs” and described the aid mission as a “PR stunt”. While Israel has deported activists from other countries to Turkey, Spain, and Italy, the Australians’ release followed representations from Canberra.
Supporters of the activists claimed instances of mistreatment during detention. Surya McEwen reportedly suffered physical assault, including a dislocated arm and head injury, along with verbal intimidation. The Global Movement to Gaza Australia criticized the Australian government for not publicly condemning the actions of Israel during the incident.
Climate activist Greta Thunberg, also deported from Israel recently, urged the international community to confront the ongoing violence in Gaza, describing it as “genocide.” Israel’s offensive in Gaza has reportedly killed over 67,000 Palestinians since the October 7 attacks two years ago, including mass abductions and killings carried out by Hamas-led militants.
The deportation and release of these Australians mark a significant moment in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Gaza, highlighting international concern over human rights, maritime law, and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
