Smalls, founder of the Amazon Labor Union, was “choked and kicked in the legs” by seven uniformed men upon arrival at an Israeli prison, the coalition said.
ISTANBUL — A US humanitarian activist, Chris Smalls, was physically assaulted after Israeli forces seized the Gaza-bound Handala aid ship and detained its 21 civilian passengers, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition said on Tuesday.
Smalls, founder of the Amazon Labor Union, was “choked and kicked in the legs” by seven uniformed men upon arrival at an Israeli prison, the coalition said. “Visible signs of violence” were found on his neck and back.
“When his lawyer met with him, Chris was surrounded by six members of Israel’s special police unit,” it added.
The Handala, carrying food, medicine, and baby formula, was intercepted near Gaza on Saturday.
The FFC decried the attack and “discriminatory treatment,” demanding accountability.
Israel has blocked Gaza’s crossings since March 2. Since October 2023, nearly 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, while 147, including 88 children, have died of starvation.
The ICC and ICJ are currently investigating Israel for war crimes and genocide in Gaza.