Greta Thunberg has returned to Sweden after being detained by Israeli authorities for participating in a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza. The 22-year-old climate activist was aboard one of over 40 vessels attempting to deliver aid, defying Israel’s longstanding naval blockade. Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla in early October and detained Thunberg, Mandla Mandela (Nelson Mandela’s grandson), and several European politicians.

Since her return, Thunberg has shared disturbing accounts of her detention. In an interview with Aftonbladet, she described being held in sweltering metal cages, witnessing detainees restrained and beaten, and experiencing repeated verbal abuse. She claimed guards mocked her, refused to give her water in 40°C heat, and took selfies with her while she begged for relief.

One of the most shocking revelations was the discovery of a slur—“Whore Greta”—written on her suitcase in black marker, surrounded by an Israeli flag and a crude drawing. Thunberg said guards used Swedish insults and kicked her during custody. She reported disrupted sleep, nightmares, and lasting emotional trauma from the ordeal.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has strongly denied all allegations, stating Thunberg’s rights were fully respected and she never filed formal complaints during her detention. They accused her of spreading false claims and emphasized that her deportation followed legal procedures.

Sweden’s Foreign Ministry has opened an inquiry into Thunberg’s treatment. As international scrutiny grows, the incident continues to ignite debate over Israel’s blockade of Gaza, the risks activists face, and the handling of detainees in politically sensitive situations.