Footage released from the scene shows riot units preventing people carrying Palestinian flags and banners from approaching the port where the ship was due to dock. Protesters say officers then advanced on solidarity activists, firing chemical agents and throwing flash-bangs while chasing and striking people with batons.
Two women are seen in the recordings being handled roughly by police. At one point one of them is heard pleading for the other one: ‘She has a heart condition! We are the teachers of your children! We were only shouting “Freedom for all”.’ The same woman was later detained, according to the videos.
Citizens had gathered to protest the ship’s arrival and to show solidarity with the Palestinian people. The footage now circulating has been shared widely on social media and by activist networks.
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