UN demands Israel release Gaza flotilla activists, investigate abuse claims 06.05.2026

The United Nations is demanding the immediate and unconditional release of two activists, Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila, who were abducted by Israeli authorities on April 30 while participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. UN rights office spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan stated that it is not a crime to show solidarity with Gaza's population, who are in dire need of aid, and called for an investigation into "disturbing accounts of severe mistreatment" of the detained Spanish and Brazilian nationals. These activists, who remain in jail without charge and are reportedly on a hunger strike, face accusations including affiliation with a terrorist organization. An Israeli court extended their imprisonment until May 10, while rights group Adalah alleges they have endured abuse amounting to torture. The UN also urged an end to arbitrary detention and the blockade on Gaza.


















