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Israeli forces release nearly all detained pro-Palestinian activists
All but two members of an aid flotilla intercepted by Israel in international waters have been freed and arrived in Greece, organizers confirmed Friday. The remaining pair face questioning in Israel over alleged ties to militant groups.
Flotilla intercepted near Crete
Israeli naval units boarded 22 vessels carrying approximately 175 activists early Thursday, roughly 600 miles from Gaza's coastline. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) condemned the operation as "piracy," asserting the seizure occurred far beyond territorial waters. Israel's foreign ministry dismissed the mission as a "PR stunt."
Detainees were transferred to Greek custody and disembarked on Crete, where buses awaited to transport them to Heraklion for temporary shelter before repatriation. Greek officials confirmed providing "diplomatic assistance" to ensure their safe return.
Two activists remain in Israeli custody
Israel announced that Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Ávila would be brought to Israel for interrogation. Abu Keshek is accused of "affiliation with a terrorist organization," while Ávila faces suspicion of "illegal activity." The GSF demanded their immediate release, calling the detentions "illegal abductions" and urging global pressure on Israel.
"We demand that all governments do everything possible to secure the release of these unlawfully held individuals."
Global Sumud Flotilla statement
International reactions and accusations
The U.S. endorsed Israel's interception, with State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott labeling the flotilla a "meaningless political stunt." In contrast, European leaders criticized the operation. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni demanded the "immediate release of all unlawfully detained Italians," while Spanish Premier Pedro Sánchez accused Israel of "violating international law."
Israel defended its actions, citing the need to prevent a breach of Gaza's naval blockade. The foreign ministry claimed the operation was "peaceful and casualty-free," though flotilla organizers reported "violent raids," including damaged engines and disabled communications. Israeli officials also alleged discovering "drugs and contraceptives" aboard the vessels.
Flotilla's objectives and Gaza's humanitarian crisis
The GSF aimed to challenge Gaza's blockade, establish a permanent aid corridor, and pressure governments complicit in its enforcement. The flotilla, comprising 58 vessels from Spain, France, and Italy, set sail two weeks prior. By Friday, 36 boats remained near Crete's southern coast.
Israel's Cogat, the defense body overseeing Gaza's crossings, stated there are "no limits" on aid entering the territory. However, UN officials warned of dire conditions, with water, sanitation, and health services "on the brink of collapse." Despite some improvements after a temporary ceasefire, 100,000 Gazans still face catastrophic food insecurity, per December assessments.
Background: Gaza conflict and previous flotillas
The war began after Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage. Israel's subsequent military campaign in Gaza has resulted in over 72,600 deaths, including 824 since the ceasefire's start, according to Hamas-run health authorities.
Last October, Israel intercepted another GSF flotilla, detaining and deporting 470 activists, including climate campaigner Greta Thunberg. The latest mission sought to draw attention to Gaza's blockade amid ongoing humanitarian crises.
