Polish activist Nina Ptak, held in Israel’s Negev prison, began a three‑day hunger strike this weekend to protest alleged genocide and the unlawful detainment of flotilla members.
Detention and Hunger Strike
On Saturday, Nina Ptak, a member of the global “Global Movement to Gaza” coalition in Poland, revealed that she had started a hunger strike in response to the kidnapping and imprisonment of flotilla participants in the Negev desert, a site known for torture and sexual violence against detainees.
The strike, aimed at protesting genocide and unlawful abduction from international waters, has already lasted three days.
Who is Nina Ptak?
Ptak is the president of the Wrocław‑based association Nomada. A feminist, leader and strategist, she chairs a team that supports foreign nationals experiencing gender‑based violence and co‑manages organizational processes within Nomada.
Israeli Seizure of the Humanitarian Flotilla
Most vessels carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza were seized at night between Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, the Israeli navy stopped the final ship, and 443 people from various countries aboard were transported to Israel for deportation to their home countries.
Polish Detainees Refuse Voluntary Deportation
Three of the four Polish members of the international flotilla—including MP Franciszek Sterczewski (KO), Omar Faris, president of the Polish‑Palestinian Cultural and Social Association, and Nina Ptak—denied signing the voluntary deportation declaration. Consequently, they will await trial in Israel.
International Moves and Polish Diplomacy
In a separate development, 137 detained individuals landed in Turkey on Saturday; among them was Polish activist Ewa Jasiewicz. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed that the consular assigned to these citizens offered them a fast‑track exit from Israel and return to Poland, but all refused to sign the deportation document.
