MEDIA DIGEST: CAIR-Chicago Hosts Returned U.S. Citizen Flotilla Activists Following Kidnap By Israeli Forces

Jun 17

On June 11, 2026, CAIR-Chicago hosted a press conference at their Chicago office, hosting Global Sumud Flotilla survivors of Israeli kidnapping.

Speakers included:

Suza, Flotilla activist
Isselmou, Flotilla activist
Farah Chalisa, Human rights attorney, INSAF Project Founder
Ahmed Rehab, Executive Director, CAIR-Chicago

Background

On May 19, Israeli naval forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla approximately 250 miles off the coast of Israel, kidnapping more than 400 activists from over 56 countries who were attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. Among those kidnapped were Chicago residents Isselmou and Suza. Both have since been released and returned safely to Chicago.

Dozens of released activists have since been hospitalized with serious injuries. Flotilla members have documented at least 15 cases of sexual assault, including allegations of rape by Israeli forces. Activists have reported beatings, being placed in stress positions, and other forms of abuse, including allegations of forcible penetration with a handgun. CAIR-Chicago calls for congressional action and accountability for all those kidnapped.

Human rights lawyer and founder of the INSAF Project, Farah Chalisa, provided updates on the detention of Samah Safi, an American citizen currently in Israeli custody. Chalisa called for justice and accountability, urging authorities to ensure that Safi’s rights, as well as the rights and well-being of other kidnapees and Palestinians, are protected.