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Gaza flotilla organisers claim 211 activists ‘kidnapped’ by Israel
Organisers of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla say Israeli forces detained over 200 activists in international waters near Greece, calling the operation illegal, while Israel says about 175 people were held.
ND
by News Desk
2026-04-30
Gaza flotilla organisers claim 211 activists ‘kidnapped’ by Israel

Organisers of a humanitarian flotilla attempting to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza have alleged that 211 activists were “kidnapped” by Israeli forces during an operation in international waters near the Greek island of Crete.

According to the Global Sumud flotilla organisers, Israeli military vessels surrounded and boarded at least 22 boats out of a total fleet of 58, which had departed from several European ports including France, Spain, and Italy. The activists claimed Israeli forces used laser targeting, weapons, and communication jamming during the raid.

The flotilla was carrying humanitarian supplies such as food and school materials and included participants from dozens of countries. Among those detained were reportedly politicians and international activists.

Israel, however, disputes the organisers’ claims, saying about 175 activists were detained and describing the mission as an attempt to breach what it considers a lawful naval blockade of Gaza.

The interception occurred far from Gaza — over 1,000 km away, according to organisers — making it one of the most distant such operations carried out by Israel. The flotilla’s supporters and several governments have condemned the move as a violation of international law, while Israel maintains it was necessary for security reasons.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Israel’s long-standing blockade of Gaza, which has been widely criticised by international organisations for contributing to severe humanitarian conditions in the region.
Tagged:

#GazaFlotilla #Israel #Palestine #Gaza #MiddleEast #HumanRights #InternationalWaters #GlobalSumud #BreakingNews
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