Egypt Detains Hundreds of Gaza Activists at Border

Egyptian authorities have detained and deported hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists from over 80 countries, including Canadians and South Africans, who attempted to join the Global March to Gaza to protest Israel's blockade and demand humanitarian aid access. Many activists reported being held without explanation, subjected to police violence, harsh conditions, and having their passports confiscated or threatened with deportation. The crackdown extended to actions by Libyan authorities and coincided with the interception of an aid flotilla, as both countries cited security and legal concerns for blocking solidarity efforts. Organizers and international groups criticized Egypt’s measures, despite its public condemnation of the Gaza blockade, and embassies were called on to assist detained citizens. The events highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by hunger and violence, and maintained international pressure to allow more aid into the enclave. Meanwhile, families of Israeli hostages and pro-Palestinian activists continue to seek visibility for their respective causes amid ongoing regional unrest.