Seoul: Kim Ah-hyun, a South Korean activist recently released from Israeli detention, has called for increased attention on the Palestinian territory of the Gaza Strip. Kim, who was detained after boarding an aid flotilla bound for the region, expressed her gratitude to the South Korean government and citizens during a phone call with Yonhap News Agency on Monday. She urged for continued awareness and support for the people living in Gaza.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim was among several humanitarian activists on a ship intercepted by Israeli forces last Wednesday. The vessel was carrying medical supplies and other humanitarian goods to the Gaza Strip. She was released from detention on Friday after agreeing to voluntary deportation and is currently residing in France.

Kim thanked the South Korean government and people for their efforts in securing her quick release and emphasized the ongoing dangerous situation faced by Palestinians. She recounted the tense moments during the seizure of the aid ship and the challenging conditions at Ketziot Prison, where she was held for two days. Kim described the prison environment and the treatment of detainees, highlighting concerns about their rights and the legality of their detention.

Kim asserted that the seizure and detention were illegal, as the ship was operating in international waters and the Gaza Strip is recognized as Palestinian land. She criticized labeling the activists as terrorists and detaining them under such conditions, despite their humanitarian mission.

In her call, Kim stressed the importance of international attention and support for resolving the issues in Gaza, urging continuous engagement until a resolution is achieved.