Five Irish Activists Detained in Israel: ‘We Drank Toilet Water’

UPDATE: Five Irish activists have returned to Dublin after facing harrowing conditions while detained by Israeli forces during a humanitarian mission to Gaza. The group, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, reported being deprived of essential water, medical care, and legal rights over several days.

Arriving at Dublin Airport on October 24, 2023, the activists described their ordeal as inhumane. Comedian Tadhg Hickey revealed, “For the crime of trying to get baby formula into a besieged population, we were brought to effectively a terrorist prison camp.” He added that Paddy Kelly, a 75-year-old man in the group, was denied insulin for days, raising serious health concerns.

The group included Caitriona Graham, Chris Andrews, Colm Byrne, Cormac O’Daly, Diarmuid Mac Dubhghlais, Donna Schwarz, Louise Heaney, Maureen Almai, Patrick O’Donovan, Sarah Clancy, Tara O’Grady, Tara Sheehy, and Thomas McCune. They were welcomed by family and supporters who gathered at the airport, highlighting the emotional impact of their release.

Activist Diarmuid Mac Dubhghlais shared more about their treatment, stating they felt as though they had “no rights.” He recounted terrifying moments involving barking dogs used against Palestinian prisoners, emphasizing the brutal conditions they witnessed. “Whatever technology the Israelis had, disabled the electronic acceleration, so we were dead in the water,” he said, underlining the premeditated nature of their interception.

The Global Movement to Gaza Eire condemned the Irish government’s inaction regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. Coordinator Niamh MacNamara criticized the situation, stating, “Our government’s inaction over the genocide and ethnic cleansing in Palestine has directly led to this situation.” She called for immediate political action to protect those still attempting to deliver aid to Gaza.

This incident raises urgent questions about international law and human rights violations. The activists were part of a larger group of 15 Irish citizens who aimed to provide humanitarian support. Some members returned earlier, but more are expected back in the coming hours.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the response from the Irish government and the broader implications for humanitarian missions in conflict zones. Authorities and activists alike are calling for accountability and change to prevent such distressing events in the future.

Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and share your thoughts on the treatment of these activists and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.