Dozens of activists who were part of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters off Crete have disembarked on the Greek island, as witnessed by an AFP journalist. The activists, escorted by Greek coast guards, were transported in four buses to an undisclosed town, with authorities not revealing the location.
Details of the Interception
Israel's foreign ministry stated that around 175 activists were taken off more than 20 boats on Thursday. However, flotilla organizers claim the number was 211. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar thanked Greece for its cooperation in disembarking the individuals, stating on X that the transfer was coordinated with the Greek government.
International Reactions
Several European governments with nationals among the detained activists have called on Israel to release them, labeling the interception a violation of international law. In contrast, the United States supported Israel's actions, with State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott describing the flotilla as a "meaningless political stunt" and urging allies to deny port access and refueling to such vessels.
The flotilla, initially comprising over 50 boats, aimed to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory. Despite a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas since October, access to Gaza remains largely restricted.
Two Leaders Taken to Israel for Questioning
Israeli authorities have taken two activists who led the flotilla to Israel for questioning. They are identified as Palestinian-Spanish citizen Saif Abukeshek and Brazilian citizen Thiago Ávila, both members of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s steering committee. Israel claims Abukeshek is "suspected of affiliation with a terrorist organization" and Ávila is "suspected of illegal activity," without providing evidence.
The incident occurred overnight from Wednesday to Thursday, hundreds of miles from Gaza and Israel. Israeli officials justified the early interception due to the large number of boats involved. Activists reported that Israeli forces stormed their vessels, smashed engines, and detained some individuals onboard.
