Israel Intercepts Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla in International Waters
Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near Greece, detaining activists and prompting international condemnation.
Israeli naval forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near Greece, detaining 175 activists from 22 vessels. The flotilla, organized by the Global Sumud Flotilla, aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge Israel's naval blockade.
Among those detained were Spanish-Swedish citizen Saif Abukeshek and Brazilian citizen Thiago Ávila, both members of the flotilla's steering committee. Israeli authorities stated they are transporting the two activists to Israel for questioning, alleging Abukeshek's affiliation with a terrorist organization and Ávila's involvement in illegal activities, without providing evidence.
The governments of Spain and Brazil condemned the detentions, describing them as "kidnapping" and demanding the immediate return of their citizens.
Flotilla organizers reported that Israeli forces mistreated participants during the interception, including physical assaults and deprivation of basic needs. Approximately 34 activists from various countries were injured and required hospitalization upon disembarkation.
The U.S. government criticized the flotilla as a "pro-Hamas initiative" and urged allies to deny the vessels port access.
The flotilla set sail from Barcelona earlier this month, with the goal of breaking Israel's blockade and delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza.