Israel Intercepts Gaza Aid Flotilla and Begins Deporting Activists
Israel has started deporting activists detained from a humanitarian aid flotilla attempting to reach Gaza. On Friday, four Italian citizens were sent home, with plans to deport hundreds more following the mission’s complete interception.
The “Global Sumud Flotilla,” which set sail last month carrying activists and politicians like Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg, aimed to deliver aid to Gaza. The United Nations has warned that a famine is occurring in the territory.
The Israeli navy stopped the final boat, named Marinette, on Thursday. In total, the military prevented over 400 people on board the flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip. Israeli authorities stated that none of the boats managed to break the maritime blockade.
Organizers of the flotilla accused Israel of “illegally intercepting” their vessels, which they said were carrying humanitarian supplies and volunteers. Among those detained were more than 20 journalists from major outlets like Spain’s El Pais and Al Jazeera. A media watchdog group condemned these arrests, stating they violate the public’s right to information.
The incident sparked international protests. Demonstrations took place in cities like Barcelona, where the journey began, with thousands chanting in support of Gaza. A general strike in Italy also disrupted travel in a show of solidarity.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the navy’s actions, calling them professional and necessary. He stated the operation successfully blocked vessels from entering a war zone and countered what he described as a “campaign of delegitimisation against Israel.”
The ongoing war in Gaza began after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, according to official figures.
