Gemma O'Toole is the first of 11 Australian activists detained by Israel off the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla to arrive back in Australia.

In between hugs and tears with family members at Istanbul Airport, some of the 11 flotilla activists have claimed they were mistreated and abused by Israeli authorities.

Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek has told ABC News Breakfast that the 11 Australians are now in Istanbul and are being assisted by Australian officials.

Gaza flotilla activists return to Ireland, UK | World News