Australia’s federal police say they are investigating claims of abuse by Israeli officials made by citizens who were detained following the interception of their Gaza-bound aid flotilla last month.
Some members of a group of Australian activists have alleged they were subjected to “physical, psychological and sexual abuse” by Israeli officials and demanded Canberra take action.
Following a meeting with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, the group says the Australian government has “committed to undertaking an independent investigation” into those allegations.
In a statement, Australia’s federal police confirm they have “begun inquiries into allegations made by a representative of the group.”
“The [police force] engages with a victim-centric, trauma-informed approach,” a spokesperson says, adding they will “provide an update at an appropriate time.”
Foreign Minister Wong said this month she believed women who said they had been subject to sexual abuse and assault by Israeli forces.
Israel’s embassy in Canberra does not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment.
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