Israel intercepted a flotilla heading to Gaza on Thursday, detaining activists and seizing essential supplies. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israeli forces of attacking the Global Sumud Flotilla while it was in international waters, claiming that the individuals on board were unlawfully abducted.
The coalition issued a statement on X, asserting, “People of conscience have been abducted. The flotilla broke no laws. What is illegal is Israel’s genocide, Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza, and Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon.” Reports indicate that at least 26 activists from different nationalities were detained during the interception.
The flotilla entered a “high-risk zone,” approximately 150 nautical miles (278 km) from Gaza, a region where prior flotillas have faced Israeli military actions. Live feeds from the vessels documented the interception, notable for the inclusion of Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg among the detained.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated on X that “several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped, and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port,” emphasizing that “Greta and her friends are safe and healthy.”
Turkey’s foreign ministry condemned the naval interception, labeling it a terrorist act, especially as several Turkish activists were among those on board. In response to the flotilla’s interception, Italian unions organized a general strike on Friday, expressing solidarity with the detained activists. Demonstrations occurred in multiple cities, including a disruption of train traffic at Naples’ central railway station and heightened police presence at Rome’s Termini station.
Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, commented on the situation via X, stating, “Tonight’s reports are very concerning. This is a peaceful mission to shine a light on a horrific humanitarian catastrophe.”
Earlier in the week, student and youth unions from various European nations, including France and Belgium, announced plans to suspend classes and organize demonstrations should the Freedom Flotilla encounter Israeli aggression. They urged student organizations worldwide to participate in solidarity efforts for the Palestinian people and the campaign to lift the blockade on Gaza.
Tags: Israel, aid flotilla, Gaza, international waters, activists
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