Australian captain of Freedom Flotilla detained indefinitely in Israeli prison

Darwin, 11 October- 

Madeleine Habib, the captain of the Conscience vessel, was arrested by Israeli forces on 8 October and is currently being held in Israel’s high-security Ketziot prison in the Negev desert. Israel has stated that unless she signs a waiver admitting to illegally attempting to break the naval blockade on Gaza, she will remain detained indefinitely.

Habib, a Tasmanian mariner and experienced activist, was part of a pro-Palestinian aid flotilla aiming to deliver humanitarian support to Gaza. Her detention follows the interception of the flotilla by Israeli authorities. Unlike other detainees who were deported after signing waivers acknowledging the blockade breach, Habib has refused to sign such a document.

Australian consular officials who visited Habib in prison reported she has faced “degradation but no physical abuse,” and has had access to legal counsel and consular support. However, she described harsh conditions, including limited food options and poor water quality. Despite suspecting her cell to be infested with bedbugs, Habib noted that she has endured worse sleeping conditions in hostels and on boats.

The detention of Habib coincides with the recent release and deportation of other Australian activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, who were sent back to Jordan this week. During a Senate estimates hearing, Greens senator Nick McKim raised concerns about Habib’s wellbeing, but Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) officials cited privacy restrictions that limited their disclosure.

DFAT officials revealed that Israeli authorities have changed their policy, now holding detainees who refuse to sign waivers indefinitely — a significant shift from the usual 72-hour deportation practice. The waiver reportedly requires detainees to acknowledge their illegal attempt to breach Israel’s naval blockade.

The Australian government expects that Israel will uphold humane treatment in accordance with international norms. However, due to holiday shutdowns, consular visits to Habib may be delayed. Officials remain hopeful for her release by Sunday.

Efforts to obtain comment from the Israeli embassy in Australia and the Israeli government remain ongoing.