[News Today] Activists abused by Israeli soldiers

[LEAD]

Two Korean activists detained by Israel and later released returned home today.

Other Gaza aid flotilla activists freed by Israeli authorities are also giving accounts of alleged abuse. They claim they were treated like animals, with some saying they were beaten in groups and even shocked with tasers.

[REPORT]

Opening fire at a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters, forcing activists to kneel after detaining them, grabbing them by the hair and dragging them away.

These clips show assault committed by Israeli soldiers.

Israel deported all but one Israeli national among some 430 international humanitarian activists who had been captured while trying to break the naval blockade on Gaza.

They all said there were acts of brutal violence committed against them.

Richard Andersen / Norwegian activist

I experienced it for the first time. It's a very different thing altogether. We've been beaten, tortured, systematically dehumanized.

The activists said that in addition to beatings, they also went through abuse tantamount to torture including electrocution.

Some say female activists were assaulted sexually.

Alex Colston / U.S. activist

About 35 people suffered fractures in the ribs. People say at least 12 sexual assaults took place. People were tased.

The revelation of brutal torture sparked international outrage. Even the U.S., Israel's closest ally, called it a despicable act.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stepped in by saying the incident completely runs counter to Israel's values and norms.

However, there are concerns that similar incidents could happen again at any time, as Israel continues to claim that the Gaza aid flotilla was a publicity stunt at the service of Hamas.