Israeli Foreign Ministry Denies Greta Thunberg’s Claims of Mistreatment in Custody
Greta Thunberg’s recent claims of harsh treatment while detained in an Israeli jail have been strongly rejected by Israel’s Foreign Ministry. The 22-year-old climate activist reported feeling unwell and suffering from rashes believed to be caused by bedbugs, along with issues related to dehydration during her time in custody.
Thunberg was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza when Israeli forces intercepted the group on October 1. In a letter to Swedish officials, she described her experiences as “harsh and exhausting,” prompting concern over her treatment during detention.
In response, a spokesperson for the Israeli Foreign Ministry refuted Thunberg’s allegations, stating that all detainees were treated fairly and given access to food, water, and legal counsel. The ministry emphasized that Thunberg did not make any complaints about her treatment while in custody.
Recent court documents indicate that during an October 5 hearing, Thunberg requested to be deported to Sweden but did not formally express any grievances about her treatment in Israel.
Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, labeled the flotilla participants as “supporters of terrorism,” asserting that they experienced conditions similar to those faced by terrorist detainees.
Thunberg and approximately 450 other activists were detained following the interception of their 42-boat convoy. The flotilla intended to breach Israel’s maritime blockade and deliver symbolic aid to Gaza.
Reports have also emerged of a Spanish detainee from the flotilla allegedly assaulting a medical staff member during the incident, illustrating tensions surrounding the event.
As the situation unfolds, both the Swedish and Israeli Foreign Ministries have been approached for further comments.
