Israel Intercepts Entire Gaza Aid Flotilla, Detains Hundreds Amidst Global Condemnation

Israeli forces have successfully intercepted the final vessel of the Global Sumud Flotilla, the Polish-flagged Marinette, completing the dismantling of the entire 44-strong humanitarian aid mission aimed at breaking the siege on Gaza. The interception occurred this Friday morning, approximately 42.5 nautical miles from Gaza.

Hundreds of activists from dozens of vessels, totaling around 500 individuals from over 40 countries, have been detained by the Israeli military since Wednesday. Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the deportation of four Italian citizens and stated preparations are underway to deport the remaining activists, asserting that all detainees are “safe and in good health.” However, the International Committee to Break the Siege of Gaza announced that several detainees have initiated an open-ended hunger strike.

The crackdown has drawn widespread international condemnation. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has denounced the detention of over 20 foreign journalists who were aboard the flotilla, calling it a “serious violation of the right to inform and be informed.” High-profile figures, including activist Greta Thunberg and Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan, are reportedly among those held.

World leaders and international bodies have also voiced strong disapproval. Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the expulsion of Israeli diplomats and the cancellation of a free trade agreement. European nations, including Germany, France, and the UK, have urged Israel to respect the rights of the crew members. The UN’s special rapporteur for Palestine, Francesca Albanese, described the interceptions as an “illegal abduction.” Stephen Cotton of the International Transport Workers’ Federation reiterated that attacking humanitarian vessels in international waters is illegal under international law, stating, “States cannot pick and choose when to respect international law.”

Israel maintains that the volunteers were attempting to “breach a lawful naval blockade,” a claim disputed by critics who argue it violates international law.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.