Israel prolongs detention of two Global Sumud Flotilla activists 

The situation surrounding the Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona, has escalated in recent days after Israel transferred two detained activists, Saif Abukeshek and Thiago Ávila, to its territory while releasing the rest of the group in Crete, Greece. 

Organizers and supporters have described the interception as an "international kidnapping," while Israel maintains the operation was lawful and tied to security concerns.

According to the Flotilla, both detainees are now in Israeli custody, where their detention has been extended by a court for at least two days.

Legal representatives argue the arrests have no basis under international law, as they occurred in international waters, and say no formal charges have yet been filed. The two activists have begun a hunger strike and alleged mistreatment, including beatings and isolation.

Israel, however, accuses Abukeshek of links to a terrorist organization and Ávila of illegal activity, insisting the flotilla was a provocation rather than a humanitarian mission. 

Israeli authorities say the pair are being interrogated under legal procedures.

The broader group of 175 activists intercepted during the raid has been released on the Greek island of Crete, though several required medical attention. 

Activists report they were held for around 40 hours under harsh conditions, claiming they were denied food and water and subjected to physical abuse while in custody.

Europe under pressure

Flotilla organizers have criticized Greece, accusing it of facilitating the operation within its search and rescue zone, and warning it risks becoming isolated internationally. 

They also point to what they describe as European Union "complicity," arguing the interception could not have taken place unnoticed in one of the world's most monitored maritime regions.

Calls for diplomatic action have intensified, particularly in Spain and Sweden, as Abukeshek holds dual nationality. While Swedish authorities have declined to intervene, the Spanish government says it is working to secure consular protection and has sent officials to assist affected citizens in Crete. 

The European Commission confirmed it is in contact with the Spanish government over the case, while reiterating that flotilla missions "put the safety of participants at risk."

Public pressure is also mounting in Barcelona where hundreds of demonstrators have taken to the streets on Saturday, May 2 demanding the release of the two detainees and greater EU involvement. 

On the same day, some of the Catalan activists involved in the vessels intercepted by Israel have begun returning to Barcelona such as Mariona Tasquer, a 20-year-old University of Barcelona student.

Protesters and advocacy groups have echoed the Flotilla's claims, denouncing alleged abuses and calling for stronger diplomatic measures.

Despite the disruption, flotilla organizers say the mission will continue once conditions allow, although several vessels were damaged during the raid and logistical challenges remain.