Gaza aid flotilla activists transferred to Israel after naval interception

Israeli authorities said on social media on Thursday morning that around 175 activists from more than 20 vessels in the Global Sumud Flotilla were being taken "peacefully" to Israel after a naval operation intercepting ships bound for Gaza in international waters. 

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the operation was carried out "without any casualties." 

It described the action as preventive, citing security risks and the need to prevent the violation of a legal blockade. 

The Global Sumud Flotilla had set sail from Barcelona in mid-April with the aim of reaching Gaza in May.

They denounced the operation led by Israel as "piracy" and a "violent incursion," saying Israeli forces boarded vessels in international waters, disabled engines and navigation systems, and left ships drifting at sea. 

Activists accused Israeli forces of pointing lasers and weapons at passengers and forcing them to kneel with their hands raised.

Organizers said communications were disrupted during the operation, preventing coordination and distress calls, and claimed the interception took place more than 600 miles from Gaza.

The flotilla also criticized what it called international inaction, accusing governments of failing to condemn the operation and describing the silence as "complicity."

Calls for mobilization

Pau Pérez, a Catalan activist in the convoy, said in a video that several Catalans were among those "kidnapped" and called for people to take to the streets to demand their release and the severing of ties with Israel.

Activists estimate that around thirty detainees hold Spanish passports.

Israel rejected the flotilla's claims, saying the mission was linked to Hamas and describing it as a "public relations stunt" rather than a humanitarian effort, also alleging that some vessels carried non-aid materials.

Meanwhile, Catalan NGO Open Arms said it has begun search and rescue operations for vessels affected by the interception and demanded the restoration of communications and safety guarantees at sea.

Political reaction

Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni expressed solidarity with the activists, accusing Israel of violating international law and warning that the use of force is preventing humanitarian access to Gaza.

He said he was "very concerned" about those detained and added that such incidents "are happening far too often."

Catalan President Salvador Illa also condemned Israel's intervention calling it "contrary to international law" and "unacceptable," and said the government was in contact with relevant authorities to ensure the protection of those on board.