Afrasianet - British journalist Yvonne Ridley, who took part in the "Steadfastness Flotilla" to break the blockade of Gaza, said her recent experience with the Israeli authorities was much harsher than her detention by the Taliban in 2001.

"Many of you know that I spent 11 days in prison under the Taliban in 2001. Now I will say something from the heart: I would rather spend two months in a Taliban prison than two days with the Israelis."

Ridley explained that Israeli forces treated her and the crew of the fleet "cruelly and brutally," and described Israeli jailers as "aggressive, bullying, and full of hatred," noting that "the female jailers were part of the patriarchal system, and they made our lives an unbearable hell."

The British journalist expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported her and helped to secure her release, saying: "I thank everyone who campaigned, prayed, protested and demanded our freedom. It's a wonderful feeling to be free after that horrible prison. I am now in Istanbul with my husband, and I am looking forward to returning to my home, to my dog, my cats and my children."

Ridley added that her mission with the flotilla was "purely humanitarian," explaining that they sought to "open a humanitarian sea corridor across the Mediterranean to deliver aid to Gaza."

"There was a little girl from Gaza waiting for us every day on the beach, watching the horizon for our sails. She said she was just waiting for us to get a chocolate bar, but we didn't arrive, and I am very sad for her and for all the children of Gaza."

She stressed that although the trip failed this time, she was more determined to continue the journey, adding: "As Nelson Mandela said, the problem is not the failure, but how to get up after it. So, we're really talking about sailing again, and whatever the difficulties, we're going to sail to Gaza. We are more determined than ever, despite the brutal treatment we have faced from the Israelis."

Ridley concluded her message by saying, "Peace and love for all, and freedom for Palestine."