Israeli Court Extends Detention of Two Flotilla Activists; Torture Allegations Detailed in Court

Ashkelon Magistrate's Court extended on May 4, 2026 the detention of the two Gaza flotilla activists held in Israel — Thiago Avila (Brazil) and Saif Abu Keshek (Spain) — amid ongoing abuse allegations. France 24's report dated May 4 confirmed the court granted the extension while their lawyers detailed abuse claims: Avila said he was dragged face-down and beaten until he lost consciousness twice; Abu Keshek alleged stress positions and prolonged mistreatment. The Israeli Foreign Ministry denied torture, saying all interrogation measures were lawful. The two remain accused by Israeli authorities of suspected Hamas links. Both appeared at the Ashkelon court on May 3, in proceedings that drew international legal condemnation. Middle East Eye confirmed that Israel also extended the detention of the broader group of flotilla activists not yet released. The detentions drew criticism from the International Federation for Human Rights, Amnesty International, and the governments of Spain and Brazil. 11 nations have signed a joint condemnation of the flotilla interception as an 'act of piracy in international waters.' No date for their release or trial was set as of May 4.