**Title: Seven Australians Deported from Israel to Jordan After Detention**
Seven Australians detained in Israel after attempting to deliver aid to Gaza have been deported to Jordan, according to Foreign Minister Penny Wong's office. The Australians were apprehended on Thursday when Israeli officials intercepted the flotilla they were part of, which aimed to breach the blockade on Gaza.
A spokesperson for Wong confirmed the deportation and stated that Australian officials would continue to assist the detainees. "The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade continues to provide consular assistance to Australians who were detained in Israel," the spokesperson said. "We are pleased they have been released from detention."
The deportation follows a series of events that included claims of mistreatment during their detention. Reports indicated that the Australians, who were held at Ketziot prison, faced threats of violence and sleep deprivation. Their release was confirmed after Australian officials raised concerns about their treatment with Israeli authorities.
Among those released was Abubakir Rafiq, whose sister expressed relief at the news during a rally in Bankstown, Sydney. "I’m over the moon. I’m ecstatic. I’m just really relieved," she said, addressing a crowd of around 1,000 people. The rally marked the two-year anniversary of Hamas's attack and Israel's military response in Gaza.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed that the seven Australians were part of a larger group of activists who had been detained. Reports indicated that over 100 activists from various countries were also released and sent to Jordan. The Australian government expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the safety and humane treatment of their citizens.
Assistant Foreign Minister Matt Thistlethwaite stated that officials had conducted checks on the detainees to ensure they were treated with dignity. He reiterated the government's warnings against traveling to conflict zones, citing safety concerns and the risk of detention. "We have been warning people not to go," he said. "Nonetheless, these people have gone and they are now detained, and we as a government are working through our officials as quickly as possible to ensure that they are treated humanely and that they return to Australia safely."
The Israeli Foreign Ministry characterized the flotilla as a "publicity stunt" and denied allegations of mistreatment. However, the detainees' legal representatives reported serious concerns regarding their treatment, including physical abuse and inadequate living conditions.
The situation surrounding the flotilla has sparked ongoing discussions about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the international response to the conflict. Activists and supporters have called for continued pressure on politicians to address the situation in Gaza, where military actions have resulted in significant casualties.
As the legal battles continue regarding protests in Australia related to the Gaza conflict, the Australian government remains focused on the welfare of its citizens abroad. The deportation of the seven Australians marks a significant development in a complex and evolving situation.