Global outrage after Israel intercepts Gaza aid flotilla

Widespread protests erupted across multiple continents after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian convoy carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. Several governments condemned the action, with some taking unprecedented diplomatic measures.

Thousands of demonstrators poured into the streets of Italy, Spain, Turkey, Australia, Ireland, Greece, and Tunisia, waving Palestinian flags and calling for the immediate release of detained activists. The protests were fueled by pre-recorded messages released by members of the flotilla, who warned that if their videos were being viewed, it meant they had been intercepted and detained by Israel. In the recordings, activists urged global mobilization to pressure governments to secure their release and end the blockade of Gaza.

International backlash and diplomatic fallout

Governments in Spain, Brazil, and Turkey swiftly condemned Israel’s interception, calling it a violation of international law and humanitarian principles.

In one of the strongest responses yet, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the expulsion of all remaining Israeli diplomats and termination of the free trade agreement between Bogotá and Tel Aviv. Petro, an outspoken critic of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, revealed that two of the detained activists Manuela Bedoya and Luna Barreto are Colombian citizens, demanding their immediate release.

Lebanese Activists Among Those Detained

Among those detained were two Lebanese nationals, though Beirut has not yet issued an official statement.

In past incidents, activists intercepted by Israel were detained, interrogated, and later deported, often after days of international outcry.

Calls to Renew the Flotilla Effort

Despite the interception, several organizers have vowed to continue their efforts, suggesting that the next attempt should launch from Turkey, whose proximity to Gaza could allow for a larger fleet and greater international participation.

A Global Movement of Defiance

The Global Sumud Flotilla consisted of nearly 500 activists from dozens of countries aboard around 50 vessels that set sail from Spain in late August, hoping to break Israel’s blockade and deliver medical and food aid to Gaza’s besieged population. Ultimately, Israeli naval forces intercepted all ships, with soldiers boarding each vessel and detaining those onboard.

The flotilla’s name, Sumud Arabic for “steadfastness” has become a rallying cry among pro-Palestinian movements worldwide, symbolizing resilience in the face of continued siege and occupation.