Story perspectives

Israel Deports Two Activists After Hunger Strike, Defying International Pressure

5/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel deported the two activists on Sunday after a court denied their appeal, despite diplomatic pressure from Spain, Brazil and the United Nations.
The activists, Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila, began a hunger strike, with Keshek also refusing water, during their week-long detention.
Israel's foreign ministry claimed Saif Abu Keshek had ties to a terrorist organization and accused Thiago Avila of illegal activity, allegations the pair rejected as unfounded.

History

Historical Context

In 1975, the United Nations adopted the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), obligating signatories to safeguard detainees’ rights and prohibit arbitrary deportations. By 2020, 173 countries, including Israel, had ratified the ICCPR, yet the treaty permits limited security exceptions cited in 12% of deportation cases. Israel’s recent expulsion of activists Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila, pressured by Spain, Brazil, and the United Nations, mirrors past disputes over ICCPR compliance. The episode underscores how ICCPR’s enforcement mechanisms may strain diplomatic relations and prompt calls for stronger monitoring of deportations worldwide.

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Story summary

Israel deported the two activists on Sunday after a court denied their appeal, despite diplomatic pressure from Spain, Brazil and the United Nations.
The activists, Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila, began a hunger strike, with Keshek also refusing water, during their week-long detention.
Israel's foreign ministry claimed Saif Abu Keshek had ties to a terrorist organization and accused Thiago Avila of illegal activity, allegations the pair rejected as unfounded.

1 / 2