Israel seizes Gaza flotilla; all passengers to be deported
The Israeli Navy intercepted the Global Solidarity Flotilla carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, detaining more than 400 international activists, including Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg and Pakistan’s Senator Mushtaq.
The move has drawn sharp global condemnation, with critics calling it a violation of international law and an act of “piracy.”
The flotilla, comprising around 40 civilian boats carrying food and medicine, was stopped roughly 70 nautical miles off Gaza. Israeli forces boarded the vessels at night, using water cannons and reportedly throwing dirty water at passengers. Cameras broadcasting live showed armed soldiers with night vision goggles surrounding activists, who sat in life vests with their hands raised.
The passengers, hailing from 46 countries, were diverted to the Israeli port of Ashdod. Israeli officials confirmed that all detainees would be deported after processing by immigration authorities.
The Global Sumud Flotilla Administration confirmed that 443 volunteers from 44 countries were illegally detained. Among them were high-profile figures such as Greta Thunberg and South African politician Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela.
Activists were transferred to Israeli custody, with reports suggesting they may be moved to Ketziot Prison in southern Israel before deportation. Human rights groups expressed concern for their safety, legal rights, and health.
Hamas denounced the raid as “piracy and terrorism,” urging the UN and international community to act immediately. South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa called the interception a “grave offence” against global solidarity, demanding the release of South African nationals.
Turkiye labeled the raid “an act of terror,” while its prosecutor’s office opened an investigation into the detention of 24 Turkish citizens. Colombia expelled Israel’s diplomatic mission and suspended a free trade agreement following the detention of two Colombians. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed 23 Malaysians were among those detained and strongly condemned Israel’s actions.
Israel’s foreign ministry claimed the flotilla was “provocative” and accused organizers of staging a stunt rather than delivering genuine aid. Officials offered to transfer humanitarian supplies through official channels instead.
