Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg has alleged mistreatment during her detention by Israeli authorities following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission to Gaza. According to communications obtained by The Guardian from the Swedish foreign ministry, Thunberg reported being held in a bedbug-infested cell with inadequate food and water, which caused dehydration and rashes. She also claimed she was forced to pose for photos while holding unidentified flags.

Other activists and legal supporters described harsh conditions for detainees, including limited food, denial of medication, and restricted access to clean water. U.S. activist Windfield Beaver called Thunberg’s treatment “terrible,” alleging she was used as propaganda. Journalist Lorenzo D’Agostino added that Thunberg was wrapped in an Israeli flag and displayed like a trophy.

Israeli officials denied the accusations, calling them “complete lies.” The Israeli embassy said detainees had full access to food, water, medical care, legal counsel, and restroom facilities, asserting that their rights were respected.

Thunberg was detained with over 400 activists, parliamentarians, and lawyers on more than 40 vessels trying to break Israel’s Gaza blockade. The flotilla was intercepted in international waters, and detainees were held at Ketziot Prison in the Negev Desert before being deported.

Thunberg and others were deported to Greece on October 6.