The Israeli government has confirmed the deportation of dozens of pro-Palestinian activists to various European countries after intercepting vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla en route to Gaza. The flotilla, comprising approximately 45 boats, aimed to deliver humanitarian aid and protest Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory.
Among the deported activists were high-profile figures including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg, French politician Marie Mesmeur, and Franco-Palestinian Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan. The Israeli navy began intercepting the vessels in international waters on Wednesday, citing security concerns and enforcement of its declared exclusion zone off Gaza.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that the activists were “safe and in good health” and were being processed for deportation at Israeli ports. Images of Thunberg and others retrieving their belongings aboard vessels and at Ben Gurion Airport were shared on social media platforms.
Flotilla organizers condemned the interceptions as “illegal,” asserting that the vessels were navigating international waters. They reported loss of communication with several boats and accused Israel of “piracy and maritime terrorism.” Governments including Turkey and Colombia have criticized the operation, with Colombia announcing the expulsion of Israeli diplomats following the detention of its nationals.
The Global Sumud Flotilla had resumed its journey on September 15 after a stop in Tunisia, where organizers claimed they were targeted by drone attacks. Despite the interceptions, remaining vessels have vowed to continue their mission toward Gaza.