Australians hostage as Israeli forces intercept flotilla carrying humanitarian aid

Eleven Australians are among hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists who have been detained after Israeli forces intercepted humanitarian aid ships headed for Gaza, flotilla organisers say.

Head of the Australian Delegation of the Global Sumud Flotilla, Simon Jones, says they have received no correspondence from Israeli authorities, but understand humanitarians are hostages of the Israeli government.

Humanitarian volunteers from previous missions reported severe mistreatment, deprivation of medical care and physical violence.

Mr Jones said that “Albanese’s silence is extraordinary,” joining the delegation in calls for the Australian government to immediately step in.