Chris Smalls, a New York labour advocate and American citizen, has returned home after a harrowing journey following his detention by the Israeli forces as they intercepted the “Handala” aid ship bound for Gaza on July 27, according to CBS News.

Smalls told CBS News only that he was exhausted and had been on a hunger strike, but did not discuss his treatment while in Israeli custody.

Smalls was greeted by his family and hundreds of supporters at John F. Kennedy International Airport. “Free Gaza. Free the people of Palestine. That’s all it’s about,” Smalls said.

“We’re happy that it’s over. He’s safe, so that’s all that matters,” Smalls’ mom said.

The Israeli forces referred CBS to the Israeli foreign ministry for comment, which has not responded so far.