The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) confirmed on Tuesday the release of 14 journalists who were detained by Israeli forces. The arrests occurred while the journalists were aboard the Conscience, a ship participating in the Freedom Flotilla Coalition aimed at delivering aid to Gaza.

The incident took place on October 8 near the Suez Canal when Israeli authorities intercepted the flotilla, which was challenging Israel's blockade of Gaza. The flotilla, consisting of nine boats, carried nationals from 30 countries along with $110,000 worth of medical supplies intended for Gaza hospitals.

Journalist Emily Wilder reported to CPJ that the Israeli military surrounded the vessel and held the crew captive for 12 hours. During this time, Wilder’s press credentials were visibly displayed, yet a soldier confiscated her notebook, which was later returned apparently after being scrutinized. Another journalist described being physically restrained and having their press card taken.

Upon the flotilla’s arrival at the port of Ashdod, Noa Avishag Schnall, another journalist, detailed a harsher treatment in a video she released. She recounted experiences of strip searches, threats, and physical assault. Schnall described the detention conditions as severe, involving filthy accommodation and extreme brutality, including being hung from metal shackles and beaten.

The CPJ has strongly condemned the detention of the journalists, stating that such actions severely undermine press freedom. Sara Qudah, CPJ Regional Director, urged Israeli authorities to grant international journalists free access to Gaza, especially in the context of the current ceasefire agreement.

Adding to the voices of concern, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, Irene Khan, criticized the arrests. She highlighted that the journalists were trying to circumvent Israel’s stringent restrictions on media access to Gaza. Khan described the detentions as an assault on unarmed civilians and a clear violation of international law.

The international community continues to watch closely as these events unfold, underscored by a renewed call for respect for journalistic freedom and human rights in conflict zones.