U.S. Citizen Detained by Israel on Global Sumud Flotilla Details Allegations of Abuse
David Adler, a U.S. citizen recently deported to Jordan after being detained by Israeli forces, has come forward with shocking allegations of abuse and "psychological torture" during his time in custody. Adler was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission aimed at delivering aid to Gaza, when Israeli forces intercepted the group in international waters.
Harrowing Experience in Custody
Upon interception, Adler and fellow activists were allegedly subjected to inhumane treatment. "We were kidnapped, stripped, zip-tied, blindfolded, and taken to an internment camp in a police van without any access to food, water, or legal support," he recounted. The ordeal lasted five days, during which he claims they faced ongoing psychological torment.
In a poignant audio message shared with Al Jazeera through the advocacy group Progressive International, Adler revealed that he and another Jewish activist were singled out for a humiliating photo opportunity with Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. "We were violently forced onto our knees, taunted, and made to pose with the Israeli flag," he said, describing the experience as a "five-day nightmare of systematic violations of our most basic rights."
The Flotilla’s Mission
The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of over 40 boats and 470 participants from around the globe, aimed to challenge the Israeli blockade on Gaza, which has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. Human rights advocates have condemned Israel’s interception of the flotilla as illegal.
Adler was among more than 20 U.S. citizens involved in the mission and was one of the last to be released. Following his release, a group of California lawmakers urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to advocate for Adler and his fellow activists.
A Call to Justice
Reflecting on his experience, Adler emphasized the moral obligation rooted in his Jewish heritage. "If there’s any part of the Torah that I still remember, it is this obligation: ‘Justice, justice you shall pursue,’" he stated. He expressed a deep concern for the Palestinian people, questioning how the Israeli government could neglect its moral responsibilities.
In a social media post while en route to Gaza, Adler articulated his commitment to humanitarian causes, stating, "I joined this flotilla to defend humanity before it is too late. My Jewish heritage demands it."
Lack of Support from U.S. Officials
Adler also criticized the U.S. government’s lack of support during his detention. "The U.S. general consul told us, ‘We are not your babysitters.’ We were left without food, water, or means to communicate," he shared. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee personally insulted Adler, labeling him a "self-absorbed tool of Hamas," while also perpetuating unfounded claims that the flotilla was funded by Hamas.
The Broader Context of Human Rights Violations
Adler’s account of mistreatment adds to the growing concerns over Israel’s human rights record, particularly regarding Palestinian detainees. Rights groups and UN experts have documented widespread violations, including torture and inhumane treatment in Israeli prisons.
As the Israeli government continues to detain thousands of Palestinians, including minors like Mohammed Ibrahim, the international community remains alarmed by the ongoing abuses. Adler’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law.
The Israeli government’s Press Office and the U.S. Department of State have yet to respond to requests for comment on this matter.
