**Australia to Investigate Assault Claims by Gaza Flotilla Activists Against Israeli Forces**
**Sydney, Australia** – The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have launched an investigation into allegations made by a group of activists who were detained by Israeli forces during a humanitarian mission to Gaza. The inquiry follows claims of rape and torture against the activists, who were part of the Global Sumud flotilla intercepted on May 18.
The decision to investigate was announced shortly after four female activists—Juliet Lamont, Neve O'Connor, Gemma O'Toole, and Luca Lamont—met with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and senior police officials. During the meeting, Lamont expressed that Wong "believes" the activists' claims and noted that the government has committed to an independent investigation into the allegations of kidnapping, abuse, and torture.
The AFP confirmed that it has initiated inquiries based on the activists' reports. A spokesperson stated that the police are employing a "victim-centric, trauma-informed approach" in their investigation and will provide updates as the inquiry progresses.
The activists were among eleven Australians detained during the flotilla's attempt to deliver aid to Gaza. After their release, the group has been vocal about their experiences, prompting discussions at the highest levels of the Australian government. Wong has reportedly raised these allegations with Israeli officials and has called for an independent and transparent investigation.
A spokesperson for Wong indicated that the meeting with the activists was an opportunity for the minister to hear directly about their experiences. The spokesperson also mentioned that Wong has condemned the actions of Israeli authorities, particularly those of far-right Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who faced backlash for a video in which he appeared to taunt the detained activists.
In response to the allegations, an Israeli embassy spokesperson stated that there is "no credible evidence" supporting the activists' claims and noted that no formal complaints have been submitted to the embassy. The spokesperson characterized the activists as "professional provocateurs" and asserted that their accusations had been previously disproven.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has distanced himself from Ben-Gvir's behavior, stating that it does not align with Israel's values and norms. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about the treatment of detainees by Israeli forces.
As the investigation by the AFP unfolds, the situation continues to attract international attention, highlighting the complexities surrounding humanitarian efforts in conflict zones and the treatment of activists advocating for aid delivery in Gaza. The outcome of this inquiry may have implications for Australia-Israel relations and the broader discourse on human rights in the region.