Authorities Complete Transfer of Foreign Participants
Israel announced on Thursday that authorities had completed the deportation process for all activists involved in the Gaza flotilla operation. In an official statement released by the Foreign Ministry, Israeli authorities reaffirmed that they would not allow any attempt to violate what they described as the lawful naval blockade surrounding Gaza.
The development followed the interception of the flotilla by the Israeli Navy on Tuesday night. Reports stated that authorities detained 428 participants from more than 40 countries after stopping the convoy at sea. Consequently, the incident quickly drew international attention and generated diplomatic reactions from several governments.
Meanwhile, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares stated earlier on Thursday that dozens of Spanish activists detained by Israeli authorities were expected to return home through Turkey on a scheduled flight. On the previous day, Albares strongly criticized the treatment of the activists and condemned actions taken against them during detention.
International Reactions Increase Pressure on Officials
At the same time, Jordanian authorities announced the return of two Jordanian activists following efforts carried out by the Ministry of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs. Furthermore, organizers from the Global Sumud Flotilla stated that around 90 detained participants had started a hunger strike after their detention.
The controversy also expanded after videos shared by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir circulated online. Reports stated that the footage showed him confronting detained activists in Ashdod, triggering criticism both internationally and within Israel.
As a result, several countries reportedly summoned Israeli diplomatic representatives following public reaction to the videos. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later stated that while authorities had the right to respond to the flotilla operation, Ben-Gvir’s conduct during the incident was unacceptable according to his assessment.
