Sumud Flotilla Detainees Abu Keshek and Avila to Be Released, Deported After 10-Day Israeli Detention
May 10, 2026Al Jazeera | Times of Israel | Jerusalem Post | Algemeiner | Spokesman | Cyprus Mail Official
Read the full story at Al Jazeera | Times of Israel | Jerusalem Post | Algemeiner | Spokesman | Cyprus Mail Summary
Sat May 9: Israel agrees to release Saif Abu Keshek (Spain) and Thiago Avila (Brazil) — the two Sumud Flotilla activists held since Apr 29 — and deport them to their home countries. Both had been on hunger strike (Abu Keshek refusing water since Tuesday). Released without charge despite "aiding the enemy" / terrorist-organization allegations from prosecutors. UN Human Rights Office had demanded "immediate and unconditional" release on May 6. Closes the 10-day flashpoint that Mamdani had called a "brazen violation of international law." Ashkelon Magistrates' Court had extended detention through Sun May 10; release came one day early.
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