Mexico Demands Israel Release Six Detained Gaza Aid Activists

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has demanded the immediate release and repatriation of six Mexican nationals detained by Israeli forces after their involvement in the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian aid mission intercepted en route to Gaza. The flotilla, consisting of over 40 civilian boats carrying around 500 people including parliamentarians and activists, was stopped by the Israeli Navy in international waters near Gaza, with Israel asserting the flotilla attempted to breach a lawful naval blockade. Mexican officials have sent multiple diplomatic notes to Israel requesting guarantees for the safety and rights of their citizens, and the Mexican Embassy has sought consular access to the detained individuals, who are reported to be held in the Ktzi’ot detention center. Sheinbaum has emphasized that the Mexicans aboard the flotilla did not commit any crime and called for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza without obstruction. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the diplomatic efforts by Mexico to protect its nationals involved in the international humanitarian effort.