Flotilla activists trying to reach Gaza describe mistreatment by Israeli forces

Activists detained after their flotilla tried to breach Israel's naval blockade of Gaza have reported mistreatment by Israeli soldiers.

The flotilla, with over 50 boats, was intercepted in international waters, 250 miles off Israel's coast.

Activists, journalists, and an Italian lawmaker were taken to a military vessel at Ashdod port in southern Israel.

They were held in containers and later released to Turkey on Thursday.

Activists described being beaten, denied legal contact and forced to sign papers under duress.

Some reported being handcuffed, blindfolded and subjected to electric shocks.

The Associated Press spoke to several activists who shared these accounts.