Wahroni, Jakarta – An Indonesian journalist seized by Israel forces recalled what it was like being in the latter's detention, saying that it doesn't compare to the pain that Palestinians face.

The journalist in question was Thoudy Badai, a photographer at the news agency Republika. Nine Indonesian activists – including Thoudy – had landed in Jakarta on Sunday after days of being in Israeli detention. The group was trying to supply humanitarian aid to Gaza when Israel captured them alongside hundreds of other activists at sea.

"All 9 of us Indonesian [activists] are back in Jakarta. What we all experienced, the tension inflicted by the Zionist Israelis, is nothing compared to what the 9,000 Palestinian prisoners face. Most of these detainees are children, mothers, and pregnant women," Thoudy said.

"I hope everyone around the world will continue to be vocal about Palestine issues. This support will encourage Palestine to continue its fight for independence."

Israel had released the activists joining the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 last Thursday after a video of Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir angered the international community. In a self-uploaded video, Ben Gvir was seen taunting the hand-tied activists who were kneeling on the ground. Foreign Minister Sugiono repeated Jakarta's disapproval of Israel's actions.

"We condemn what Israel did to our brothers. This is a violation of international law. They are civilians who are on a humanitarian aid mission for our brothers and sisters in Palestine," Sugiono said.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/it-doesnt-compare-to-palestinian-pain-indonesian-seized-by-israe