Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near the Greek island of Crete, detaining around 175 activists from 22 boats. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), part of an effort to break Israel's blockade of Gaza by delivering humanitarian assistance, had set sail from Barcelona on April 12 with a total of 58 vessels.
Key Takeaways
Israel intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near Greece, detaining around 175 activists from 22 of the 58 vessels involved. Most were released in Greece, but two men are being brought to Israel for questioning. The Global Sumud Flotilla organizers condemned the action as 'piracy,' while Israel dismissed it as a 'PR stunt.'
- Around 175 activists from 22 boats intercepted by Israeli forces near Crete
- Most released in Greece, two men taken to Israel for questioning
- Organizers denounce interception as 'piracy'
- Israel calls flotilla a 'PR stunt'
- Italy condemns the seizure and demands release of detained nationals
Most of the detained activists have been released in Greece, but two men—Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Ávila—are being brought to Israel for questioning. The flotilla organizers denounced the interception as 'piracy,' stating that members were seized unlawfully more than 965 kilometers (600 miles) from Gaza.
Israel's foreign ministry dismissed the flotilla as a 'PR stunt' and maintained that its actions complied with international law. Italy condemned the seizure, demanding the immediate release of all detained Italian nationals. Germany joined Italy in expressing deep concern over the developments.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) acknowledged the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, highlighting efforts to deliver aid by sea. The GSF website indicates that while 22 boats have been intercepted, 36 are still en route towards Gaza.
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