Orcas Island woman released from Israeli detention facility following Gaza aid flotilla

Jasmine Ikeda, an Orcas Island activist, was released from Israeli military custody after being detained during a flotilla that aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Israeli military intercepted the flotilla on October 1, capturing Ikeda along with over 500 other activists. She reported being held at gunpoint for more than 20 hours and witnessing violence against fellow detainees. Following her release, which occurred shortly before an agreement between Israel and Hamas, Ikeda shared her harrowing experience with King5. U.

S. Representative Rick Larsen had previously communicated with Ikeda’s family about her detention. He has not yet provided a statement following her return. The flotilla incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by activists attempting to provide aid. Ikeda's experience sheds light on the risks associated with such humanitarian missions in conflict zones.