**’Dragged by Hair’: Activists Claim Greta Thunberg Mistreated in Detention**

*By Snehil Singh | October 5, 2025, 11:25 AM*

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was allegedly mistreated during her detention by Israeli authorities, according to fellow activists who witnessed the incident. Around 137 activists attempting to deliver aid to Gaza were detained and subsequently deported to Turkey, where they arrived on Saturday.

### Allegations of Mistreatment and Propaganda

Activists Hazwani Helmi and Windfield Beaver reported that Thunberg was shoved and forced to wear an Israeli flag during her detention. Turkish activist Ersin Celik went further, alleging that Thunberg was “dragged by her hair” and “beaten” by Israeli forces. He also claimed she was compelled to kiss the Israeli flag as a warning to other detainees.

Helmi and Beaver highlighted the poor treatment of detainees, stating that they were denied clean food and water. They also accused Israeli authorities of using Thunberg as “propaganda” throughout her detention.

### Official Response from Israeli Authorities

The Israeli foreign ministry categorically denied all allegations of mistreatment, describing them as “complete lies.” According to their statement, all detainees were provided with adequate food, water, and access to restrooms. The ministry emphasized that the legal rights of all detainees were fully upheld during the process.

Additionally, Turkish foreign ministry sources confirmed that the detained activists included citizens from several countries, such as the United States, UAE, Algeria, and Italy.

### Health Concerns Raised by Swedish Foreign Ministry

The Swedish foreign ministry echoed concerns about Thunberg’s treatment, reporting that she was held in a cell infested with bedbugs and given insufficient food and water. An official who visited Thunberg noted she was suffering from dehydration and rashes suspected to be caused by bedbug bites.

The ministry also stated that another detainee witnessed Thunberg being forced to hold flags for photographs, adding weight to the claims of her use as a propaganda tool.

Despite these allegations, Israeli officials maintain that all detainees’ legal rights were respected throughout their detention.

### International Attention and Blockade Controversy

This incident has drawn widespread international attention and sparked criticism regarding the treatment of activists during their detention.

The flotilla aimed to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of the Gaza Strip, a move Israeli authorities have condemned as a publicity stunt. Officials warned activists against breaching what they label a “lawful naval blockade,” underscoring the contentious nature of the mission.

As the situation continues to unfold, debates over the blockade and the rights and treatment of activists remain at the forefront of international discussions.
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