In brief
Australia's Federal Police have launched an investigation into claims that Israeli forces raped and tortured activists from a Gaza aid flotilla intercepted in May. The allegations were raised by four members of the Global Sumud group after they met with Foreign Minister Penny Wong and senior police officials. Wong said the government would act and seek an independent, transparent probe. Israeli authorities deny all accusations, stating no credible evidence exists. The AFP will update the public once the investigation is complete.
Australian Federal Police have opened an investigation into claims that Israeli military personnel raped and tortured Gaza-wide activists after a flotilla was intercepted in May.
Four female activists from the Global Sumud flotilla – Juliet Lamont, Neve O'Connor, Gemma O'Toole and Luca Lamont – met with Foreign Minister Penny Wong and senior police officials following the incident, asserting that the group was subjected to kidnapping, physical and sexual assault.
Wong stated that the government would take action and lead an independent, transparent investigation into the allegations, and that the minister believes the claims presented to her.
Israeli authorities dismiss the accusations, with their embassy in Australia saying there is no credible evidence or formal complaints substantiating the claims.
The AFP confirmed it has begun inquiries based on a representative’s alleged grievances and will update the public when the investigation is concluded.
More on the flotilla’s detention and the diplomatic fallout can be found in related reports.
See also: Gaza flotilla activists deported from Israel as backlash over treatment grows
