A climate activist known for her provocative “How Dare You” speeches, Greta Thunberg, has faced detention by Israeli authorities after attempting to transport aid to Gaza via a vessel. The incident occurred during the Global Sumud Flotilla mission, which sought to circumvent Israel’s naval restrictions.

Thunberg was removed from her boat and held in an Israeli facility, where she alleged severe conditions. According to internal communications reviewed by media outlets, she described being confined in a cell plagued by bedbugs, receiving minimal food and water, and experiencing physical discomfort. A Swedish embassy official reportedly confirmed her claims of dehydration and rashes, citing unsanitary living conditions.

Additional accounts from fellow detainees included allegations that Thunberg was compelled to hold unidentified flags during photographic sessions. One participant, ErsinÇelik, described witnessing her mistreatment, including being dragged by her hair and forced to kiss an Israeli flag. These claims were corroborated by other flotilla members detained and later released.

Israeli authorities dismissed the allegations as false, asserting that all detainees’ legal rights were respected. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated Thunberg had not raised concerns about the accusations during her detention, calling them “baseless.” The incident has sparked international scrutiny over the treatment of activists involved in Gaza-related humanitarian efforts.