Israel Deports Hundreds of Gaza Flotilla Activists Amid International Protests

Israel has escalated its deportation efforts, expelling another 137 activists detained this week after their flotilla attempted to deliver aid to Gaza. This brings the total number of deportees to over 300, with individuals from 14 countries, including the US and UK, among those expelled on Saturday.

The expulsions follow the interception of dozens of vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) by Israeli forces, which prevented them from reaching Gaza. Israeli authorities arrested approximately 470 people during the operation, which began on Wednesday in international waters about 70 nautical miles off Gaza.

Israel’s foreign ministry labeled the activists “provocateurs” and described the flotilla’s actions as a “publicity stunt,” asserting that the vessels were “approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade.” Conversely, the GSF condemned the interceptions as “illegal attacks on unarmed humanitarians,” alleging that activists were assaulted with water cannons and demanding their immediate release and safety.

The incident and subsequent deportations have ignited widespread protests globally, particularly in countries like Spain, Italy, Colombia, and Argentina, in solidarity with the flotilla and against the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Israel has stated its intention to complete the deportation process swiftly, assuring that all detainees are in good health. However, the GSF continues to call on international institutions to intervene, highlighting the presence of figures like Greta Thunberg on one of the boats.

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