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UN Demands Release of Two Activists Detained Over Hamas Allegations

5/8/2026

25 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

UN demanded immediate release of the two activists, citing abuse allegations.
Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila were seized after a flotilla was intercepted near Greece.
An Israeli court extended their detention until May 10.
Israel says they belong to a group it accuses of supporting Hamas and charges them with aiding the enemy.
Adalah reported the men are held in isolation, blindfolded, under high-intensity lighting and on a hunger strike.

History

Historical Context

In 2009 Israel issued Military Order 1650, signed by Major General Gadi Shamni, expanding the definition of “infiltrator” and permitting detention without trial for up to seven years. The order, criticized by the UN and NGOs such as Adalah, underpins the current demand for release of Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila detained near Greece.

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Story summary

UN demanded immediate release of the two activists, citing abuse allegations.
Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila were seized after a flotilla was intercepted near Greece.
An Israeli court extended their detention until May 10.
Israel says they belong to a group it accuses of supporting Hamas and charges them with aiding the enemy.
Adalah reported the men are held in isolation, blindfolded, under high-intensity lighting and on a hunger strike.

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