An Israeli court has extended the detention of two activists arrested aboard a Gaza-bound flotilla, further escalating tensions surrounding a humanitarian mission. The Ashkelon Magistrate's Court ruled that Saif Abu Keshek, a Spanish national, and Thiago Avila, a Brazilian national, will remain in custody until May 10.
The two men were intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters near Greece. They were part of the second Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona on April 12 in an effort to deliver humanitarian assistance and challenge the blockade of Gaza. While over 100 other pro-Palestinian activists were taken to the Greek island of Crete, Abu Keshek and Avila were brought to Israel.
According to court documents, Israeli authorities accuse the pair of several offenses, including aiding the enemy, maintaining contact with foreign agents and terrorist organizations, and providing means to a terrorist organization. Judge Yaniv Ben-Haroush granted the extension, stating there is "reasonable suspicion" regarding the charges.
However, the legal team from the human rights group Adalah has strongly contested these claims. Lawyers argued that the allegations are baseless and that no formal charges have been filed, suggesting the detention is merely for the purpose of ongoing interrogation. Adalah has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the two men and has raised allegations of torture during their custody—charges that the Israeli government has dismissed.
The situation has drawn international diplomatic attention. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares has called for the immediate release of Abu Keshek, asserting that there is no evidence linking him to Hamas. Albares further argued that the detention is illegal, as Israel lacked jurisdiction in the international waters where the interception occurred.
Adding to the urgency, both Abu Keshek and Avila are currently on hunger strikes. While their families report they are in weak condition, the court has ordered the Israel Prison Service to monitor their medical status closely.
The Israeli foreign ministry continues to maintain that the flotilla was a provocation intended to divert attention from political issues in the region, denying all claims of misconduct by its staff and stating that all measures taken were in accordance with the law.
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Israeli court extends detention of two Gaza flotilla activists
cgtn.com
