Israel Deports 170 Gaza Flotilla Activists After Naval Interception

Israeli authorities have intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, a group of about 40 vessels carrying nearly 500 activists from over 50 countries attempting to break the naval blockade of Gaza, resulting in the detention and planned deportation of many participants including prominent figures like Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The Israeli Navy seized the boats in international waters, detained the activists, and is deporting over 170 individuals, with many already flown to countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Reports from detainees and legal representatives indicate that there were initial assaults and harsh conditions in detention, though situations have stabilized somewhat, with concerns remaining over health and medical care, especially for hunger strikers. Several detainees, including Portuguese and Dutch activists, have been released and repatriated, with their respective governments involved in their return. The flotilla organizers framed the mission as a peaceful protest delivering humanitarian aid, while Israeli officials described it as a provocation linked to Hamas, drawing international criticism and protests in countries like Turkey, Portugal, and Italy. The incident has sparked heated debate over the blockade, humanitarian concerns, and the role of activists like Thunberg, amidst the ongoing conflict triggered by recent attacks in the region.