Danish MP Returns After Detention
Victoria Velasquez, a Member of Parliament from Denmark's Red-Green Alliance, has returned to Denmark after being detained by Israeli authorities. Velasquez was part of a humanitarian aid mission attempting to deliver supplies to Gaza when the flotilla she was on was intercepted. Her return to Denmark was confirmed on October 10, 2025.
Interception of Humanitarian Flotilla
Velasquez was detained as part of the 'Thousand Madleens to Gaza' flotilla, specifically on board the Danish aid ship 'Umm Saad'. The flotilla, also known as the Global Sumud Flotilla, was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters around October 1, 2025. This mission involved numerous activists and parliamentarians from various countries who sought to break the blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian assistance.
Allegations of Mistreatment and Official Responses
Following the interception, many participants of the flotilla, including prominent Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, alleged mistreatment during their detention. Reports from released activists included claims of sleep deprivation, lack of adequate food and water, and some even reported being subjected to beatings or being held in cages. Israeli officials, however, have rejected these allegations. Israel's Foreign Ministry described the claims of ill-treatment as 'brazen lies' or 'complete lies'. In contrast, an Israeli minister reportedly expressed 'pride' in the harsh treatment of the detainees, referring to them as 'supporters of terrorism'.
Danish Government's Stance on Gaza Aid
The detention of a Danish MP comes amidst ongoing international discussions regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has previously called for 'unrestricted, rapid, and safe' access for humanitarian aid into Gaza, stating that the blockade of aid from Israel is 'unacceptable'. She has also voiced criticism of the Israeli government's actions in the region.
5 Comments
Habibi
The desire to provide aid is commendable, and blockades do create suffering. But sending a flotilla into a contentious area often creates more problems than it solves, diverting focus from actual aid to political disputes.
Muchacha
An MP should focus on her constituents, not international theatrics that put her at risk.
Rotfront
Claims of mistreatment are likely exaggerated or fabricated. Don't believe the propaganda.
Bella Ciao
The reports of mistreatment are horrifying. No one should be treated like that for delivering aid.
Donatello
It's concerning to hear allegations of mistreatment during detention, which should always be investigated thoroughly. However, Israel does face genuine security challenges in the region that complicate aid delivery.