**Swansea Woman Detained by Israeli Authorities Amid Disputed Accusations**
A woman from Swansea is at the centre of an international dispute following her arrest by Israeli police in the West Bank, with family members and campaigners claiming the allegations against her are unfounded.
Ms D. Murphy, a 70-year-old Irish national who has made Swansea her home for over four decades, was detained in the village of Khalet Al-Daba’a in Masafer Yatta on 31 May. International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a group advocating for human rights in Palestine, says Ms Murphy was apprehended alongside Susanne Björk, a 48-year-old Swedish citizen also based in the UK. The two women were reportedly accused of being present in a restricted military zone—an allegation labelled “false” by ISM.
Ms Murphy’s son, Dale Ryan, who resides locally in Swansea, expressed deep concern over the detainment and ongoing lack of direct contact with his mother since her arrest last Saturday. While Ms Björk has already been deported from Israel, Ms Murphy has refused voluntary repatriation and is challenging the move with legal assistance, according to family statements.
Describing the lead-up to the detainment, Dale insisted both activists were complying fully with any identification requests and were present as witnesses rather than agitators. “The internationals with ISM are there to observe and support, not to cause any disruption,” he emphasised, highlighting what he believes to be a mischaracterisation by the authorities.
This is far from Ms Murphy’s first visit to the troubled region, having travelled to Palestine upwards of a dozen times since 2004. Her current trip began four weeks prior to her arrest, with family noting her long-standing commitment to the area and its people. “A piece of her heart is in Palestine,” Dale explained, underlining his mother’s passion and repeated efforts to lend solidarity during times of crisis.
Campaigners report that since her detainment Ms Murphy has been transferred from a detention centre at Ben Gurion Airport to Givon prison near Ramla. Though ISM and her family have secured legal representation and made inquiries through official channels, as of yet they have not been able to establish direct contact with her.
A hearing is expected to take place on Thursday, with Ms Murphy reportedly determined to fight her deportation order. Her son commented, “By challenging the deportation, she’s bringing attention and awareness not just to her case, but to the wider situation in the West Bank and in Gaza.”
Dale reassured that, to his knowledge, his mother’s basic needs are being met during her time in custody, though the emotional strain on the family remains high. He reflected on her history with activism, including past participation in demonstrations against the Iraq conflict, and described a close-knit family supporting one another as they await further news.
“My mother is doing what she’s passionate about, even though for us, it’s worrying,” Dale shared. “She knows the people in the region, has lived with them, and can speak Arabic. Although it’s difficult for us, we understand her commitment—and the people of Palestine need all the solidarity they can get.”
Locally, Swansea West Labour MP Torsten Bell confirmed he is aware of Ms Murphy’s case and is engaging with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to monitor the ongoing proceedings. “Thank you to all those who have reached out with concerns; I am following the matter closely,” Bell said in a brief statement.
The Israeli government has been approached for an official response regarding the arrest, though no further comment had been provided as of publication.
The situation continues to develop, with human rights observers and local representatives alike paying close attention to the outcome of Ms Murphy’s case and what it may mean for international activists in the West Bank in future.