Activist Chris Smalls Returns Home After Israeli Detention
BREAKING: New York labor advocate Chris Smalls has returned home after being detained by Israeli forces for five days during a humanitarian mission to Gaza. Smalls was one of 21 activists on board an aid ship when they were intercepted in international waters on July 27, according to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
Reports from the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel indicate that Smalls faced severe treatment while in custody, alleging he was physically assaulted by Israeli personnel. The organization claims that he was “choked and kicked” by multiple uniformed individuals, leaving visible injuries on his neck and back.
Upon his arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Friday, Smalls was greeted by family and hundreds of supporters, who raised their voices for Palestinian freedom. “Free Gaza. Free the people of Palestine. That’s all it’s about,” Smalls stated, highlighting the purpose of his mission.
Despite his ordeal, Smalls described himself as exhausted and confirmed he had been on a hunger strike during his detention but refrained from discussing the specifics of his treatment. The Israel Defense Forces referred inquiries to the foreign ministry, which has yet to respond.
Smalls gained recognition in 2020 for his efforts to unionize Amazon workers in Staten Island and later co-founded the Amazon Labor Union. Supporters hailed his actions as heroic, with one stating, “He took a stand for Palestinian freedom, not knowing whether he would be able to come back or not. We salute him.”
Smalls expressed determination to continue advocating for Gaza, declaring, “We’re going to send another flotilla. Another one after that. And we’re never gonna quit and give up.”
This urgent situation not only underscores the risks activists face but also draws attention to the ongoing humanitarian issues in Gaza. As developments unfold, many are left wondering how international responses will shape future missions and the safety of humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
