Spain urges Israel to release detained Gaza flotilla activist

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares has expressed concern over the detention of Saif Abukeshek, a Spanish-Swedish national of Palestinian origin, who was arrested during a raid on a flotilla headed for Gaza. Abukeshek was among 175 activists detained by Israeli military forces and taken to Greece, except for himself and Brazilian Thiago Avila, who were later transported to Israel for questioning.

Albares stated that the detention occurred “outside the jurisdiction of Israel” and described it as a “kidnapping.” The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs claims that Abukeshek has ties to Hamas, but Albares disputes this assertion, stating that no evidence has been presented regarding Abukeshek’s relationship with the organization.

Abukeshek was reportedly subjected to torture on an Israeli military vessel, according to testimonies from released activists. He was allegedly kept hand-tied and blindfolded for extended periods, resulting in physical injuries. Avila also reported experiencing extreme brutality during his detention.

Both Abukeshek and Avila have declared a hunger strike, although they continue to drink water. They are scheduled to appear before a court on Sunday for a hearing to extend their detention. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for the release of Abukeshek, stating that Spain will always protect its citizens and defend international law.

The incident has prompted protests and condemnation from rights groups and governments, including Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which described Israel’s actions as an “act of piracy.”

Source: Al Jazeera