Lara Souza Speaks Out After Thiago Avila’s Detention

The wife of Brazilian pro-Palestine activist Thiago Avila has accused Israeli authorities of mistreating him after he was detained during a Gaza-bound humanitarian mission.

In an interview recorded in Brasilia on Thursday, Avila’s wife, Lara Souza, said communication with him was cut after Israeli forces intercepted vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla on April 30. She alleged irregularities, threats and abuses during and after the operation.

“The last time Thiago and I spoke was on the day of the illegal interception,” Souza said. “We had a call about an hour before it happened.”

Souza said the mission involved around 80 vessels and more than 1,000 participants from several countries. She said at least 22 boats were intercepted on the same day Avila was detained.

Family Claims Interception Happened in International Waters

She claimed the interception took place in international waters near Greece, more than 1,000 kilometres from Israeli territory, and described the operation as illegal.