Activist Will Alexander Claims Abuse After Israeli Navy Detention

Actor-turned-activist Will Alexander was among approximately 150 individuals detained by the Israeli navy while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. Following their interception, Alexander reported severe mistreatment of detainees, including being blindfolded and zip-tied during their time in custody.

Upon returning to Christchurch on Monday, Alexander was greeted by supporters who applauded his arrival. He emphasized the need to focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza rather than on the activists themselves. “We are not the story, we’re just activists. As one of our comrades said, we are the finger pointing at Gaza,” he stated. Alexander criticized the New Zealand government for its failure to recognize Palestine as a state, calling it shameful.

Alexander described the conditions faced by him and fellow detainees immediately after being taken off the boat. He alleged that they were subjected to physical abuse, stating, “I saw one guy with about nine or 10 Israeli police officers surrounding him and they really, really hurt his neck.” He recounted that personal belongings were searched and stolen, and detainees were then transported to Ktzi’ot prison, where they spent approximately a day and a half.

In prison, Alexander reported living in a cramped cell with nine others, contending that they were forced to endure unsanitary conditions, including sewage overflow from a broken toilet. He recalled waking up to guns pointed at them, highlighting the intensity of their experience.

In response to these allegations, the Israeli embassy in New Zealand was contacted by RNZ. The deputy Israeli ambassador, Maya Simon, asserted that all members of the flotilla were brought ashore “healthy and safe.” Simon stated that detainees received consular assistance and were either already home or awaiting deportation.

Following his release, Alexander mentioned that he and other activists were flown out of Israel by Turkey. He made his own way back home from Istanbul, but believed some individuals may still be detained in Israel.

Expressing relief at being back in New Zealand, Alexander looked forward to reuniting with his family and taking some much-needed time to rest.