The Global Sumud Flotilla had sailed from Turkey last week in the latest attempt by activists to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to the enclave. Israeli authorities said 430 activists who had been aboard the flotilla were being brought to Israel, while the human rights group Adalah said some had already arrived at the port of Ashdod and were being held there.
Adalah said the activists had been “violently abducted from international waters” and transferred to Israeli territory against their will after sailing towards Gaza to deliver aid and challenge what it called an illegal blockade. Israel’s Foreign Ministry rejected the mission as a publicity stunt serving Hamas, saying late on Tuesday that all 430 activists had been transferred to Israeli vessels and would be able to meet their consular representatives once in Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier described the flotilla as “a malicious plan” aimed at breaking the blockade imposed on Hamas in Gaza. The United States on Tuesday imposed sanctions on four people linked to the Global Sumud Flotilla, accusing them of being “pro-terrorism”.
Around 50 vessels had left south-western Turkey on Thursday. Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry said nine Indonesian citizens who took part in the flotilla were reportedly detained by Israel and called for the immediate release of all vessels and crew members. Indonesian newspaper Republika reported that two of its journalists were among those held. Turkey and Spain also condemned the interception.
Organisers said the flotilla included 15 Irish citizens, among them Margaret Connolly, sister of President Catherine Connolly. Israel controls all entry points into Gaza, which has been under Israeli blockade since 2007.
A previous flotilla attempt was intercepted last month in international waters off Greece, with most activists deported to Europe. Two were taken to Israel, held for several days and later deported.
Source: CNA
