Sid Khan, alongside three other Scots, was detained after their ship was boarded by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla mission.
A Scottish activist has reported that he and other detainees faced physical abuse after being apprehended by Israeli military personnel.
Sid Khan, also known by the name Saddaqat, was among four Scots captured when the Global Sumud Flotilla, aiming to deliver aid to Gaza, was seized last week. The 48-year-old spent five weeks aboard the flotilla before their interception.
The detainees, apprehended between October 1 and October 3, were transported to Israel and incarcerated. Khan returned to Scotland on Wednesday alongside fellow activist Jim Hickey, before reuniting with his wife, Isma Tahir Khan.
The flotilla, consisting of 42 boats, was en route to Gaza Beach when intercepted and redirected to the port of Ashdod, where participants were handed over to the Israeli police.
Speaking to STV, Khan shared that while he anticipated the interception, he did not foresee the harsh treatment they received from the Israeli guards, a claim that Israeli authorities have denied.
Upon their transfer to prison, Khan claimed that they were denied access to water, medication, and legal representation. He also alleged that some detainees were subjected to physical abuse and were prohibited from looking up.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp Community!
By joining our WhatsApp community, you can receive the latest news directly on your phone. Enjoy daily updates on breaking news and major headlines throughout Scotland. Your privacy is guaranteed, as only the Daily Record team can send messages. Opt in today by clicking ‘Join Community’—if you’re using a desktop, simply scan the QR code with your phone. Special offers and promotions from us and our partners are also available exclusively to community members. You can leave the group anytime by selecting ‘exit group’ at the top of your screen. For more information, please read our Privacy Notice.
Khan recounted their ordeal, stating, “We were intercepted by Israeli commandos and our boats were forcibly boarded at gunpoint. We had prepared for such an event, adhering to protocols we had practiced for what to do in such situations.”
He described the conditions of their detention: “Some of us were beaten, and you weren’t allowed to look up. If you looked, then you got told to sit on your knees in a high-stress position. We were zip-tied, and yeah, it was quite an ordeal.”
Khan expressed a strong commitment to non-violent aid facilitation, criticising governmental failures and stating, “It was necessary because the government have failed, all governments have failed.”
Despite the harsh experiences, Khan affirmed he would participate again if given the chance. Meanwhile, Israeli officials have denied all allegations of mistreatment and deprivation of rights.
Upon their arrival back in Scotland, Khan and Hickey were hailed as “heroes” by a crowd of supporters and loved ones at Glasgow Airport, who celebrated their return with cheers and placards, labeling them “Flotilla heroes.” This warm welcome coincided with a preliminary peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, aimed at halting hostilities and facilitating an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
The Foreign Office has acknowledged that several British nationals were detained in Israel, confirming ongoing communications with local authorities to address the situation.
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
