The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has opened an inquiry into serious claims that Israeli forces sexually assaulted and tortured activists who were detained during the interception of the Global Sumud flotilla en route to Gaza.
Australian officials met with four women from the flotilla on Monday following the Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s announcement that she would pursue a “full, independent investigation” of the alleged abuses. Wong stated she believes the activists’ accounts, while the Israeli embassy has denied any grounds for the allegations, saying no credible evidence has been presented.
The activists—Juliet Lamont, Neve O’Connor, Gemma O’Toole and Luca Lamont—were among 11 Australians reportedly arrested by Israeli forces on 18 May after the flotilla was intercepted en route to Gaza. The incident sparked widespread condemnation, notably from Israeli far‑right minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir whose video of the activists in handcuffs drew international ire, and prompted a brief response from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirming that such conduct does not reflect Israel’s values.
AFP spokesperson Julie Miller said investigators will use a victim‑centric, trauma‑informed approach and that an update will be provided when appropriate. The case underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict and the international community’s scrutiny of humanitarian operations.
