Family in distress as Australian detained in Gaza flotilla faces alleged abuse
The mother of an Australian man detained while attempting to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza is calling on the Australian government to actively intervene. Surya McEwen, a resident of Mullumbimby in New South Wales, was among hundreds of activists detained on October 2 as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a mission aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza amid ongoing tensions and blockades.
McEwen’s mother, Jacinta McEwen, says she is “very worried” and “shocked” by the communications she has received through diplomatic channels. Reports suggest her son has endured humiliating treatment and physical abuse while in prison, and is currently on a hunger strike.
“I’m just absolutely shocked that Prime Minister Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have not even contacted me as his mother, have not said anything about this,” Ms McEwen stated. The mother’s appeal reflects broader concern among families of those detained who feel left in the dark while diplomatic discussions unfold.
Australian officials have provided redacted summaries of the experiences of Mr McEwen and the other detainees, which have been obtained by the ABC. The summaries reportedly describe a harsh sequence of events that have alarmed families and heightened questions about the treatment of foreign nationals in Israeli custody.
Allegations of violence and confinement raise alarms
The documents claim that Surya McEwen suffered an arm dislocation and that his head was slammed into the ground following interception and ashore at Ashdod Port. It is also alleged that he was placed in a large cage with 80 other detainees for extended periods as Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited and condemned the group. Further accusations include sleep deprivation and physical intimidation by guards, and reports of a hunger strike with only water being consumed.
Jacinta McEwen suggests there may be racial profiling involved in her son’s treatment, noting his Indian heritage. The summaries further allege that Mr McEwen’s Australian passport was ripped up at sea and that he was initially separated from the rest of the detainees in the Global Sumud Flotilla.
Despite the distressing accounts, Mr McEwan’s family is also portraying him as a peaceful, everyday Australian. His brother, Anandan McEwan, spoke at a Ballina press conference with other families affected by the detentions, urging action and expression of concern from authorities. “Surya is not extreme; he is simple, caring, an everyday Australian,” Anandan said. The family emphasises the need for due process, humane treatment, and a clear line of communication from government officials.
What the families are asking from the Australian government
There is a growing call for direct engagement from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and other senior officials to advocate for the safe return of all Australians detained abroad. Families argue that timely contact and public statements of concern could help ensure fair treatment and expedite protective diplomacy in a case that has drawn international attention.
Analysts note that the situation sits at the intersection of humanitarian relief and geopolitical conflict. While many Australians support the flotilla’s intent to deliver food and medical supplies to Gaza, governments navigate complex legal and diplomatic terrain when host countries detain foreign nationals amid conflict, security concerns, and public safety considerations.
As the case unfolds, families’ calls for accountability and humane treatment remain central to the public discourse. They insist that citizens who attempt to provide aid should not be subjected to mistreatment or punitive measures, and that diplomacy must prioritise their safety and well-being.
For Jacinta McEwen, the message is stark: “Stand up for my son.” The appeal is not only for her family’s peace of mind but also for broader assurances that Australians abroad are protected and that government channels are employed to secure their release and safe return home.
