430 Activists, Including 13 Irish Citizens, Detained by Israel from Gaza Aid Flotilla
Israel detained 430 activists, including 13 Irish citizens, from the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, calling it a «PR stunt for Hamas». Irish leaders condemned the detention, citing breaches of international law and demanding immediate release. The flotilla aimed to challenge Israel’s 2007 blockade amid severe food insecurity in Gaza.
Israel's Foreign Ministry confirmed that 430 activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, bound for Gaza, are being taken to Israel. The flotilla stated its vessels were intercepted in the Mediterranean and those on board were forcibly detained by Israeli naval forces. This marks the latest attempt by activists to breach Israel’s blockade of the Palestinian territory.
Among the detained are 13 Irish citizens, including Dr. Margaret Connolly, sister of President Catherine Connolly. The other Irish citizens are Colm Byrne, Michael Cullen, Tom Deasy, Cormac O’Daly, Joshua St Leger, Louise McCormack, Catriona Graham, Helena Kearns, Adam Fitzhenry Collier, Luke Mc Menamin, Fra Hughes, and Tara Sheehy. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called it another «PR flotilla» and stated all activists were transferred to Israeli vessels en route to Israel, where they can meet consular representatives. The ministry also accused the flotilla of being a «PR stunt at the service of Hamas».
Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Tánaiste Simon Harris, and Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee condemned the detention on Tuesday. McEntee called for the immediate release of Irish citizens, stating Israel was in breach of international law and must ensure their safety and humane treatment. Her department is engaging with Israeli authorities for consular access and support. Flotilla organizers posted a livestreamed video showing activists with hands raised as shots were heard, though Israel's foreign ministry denied firing live ammunition or injuring protesters.
Nine Indonesian citizens, including two journalists, were also reported arrested. Indonesia, Turkey, and Spain have condemned the interception. The United States sanctioned four individuals associated with the Global Sumud Flotilla, labeling them «pro-terrorist», a claim rejected by organizers who maintain their mission is peaceful and aims to challenge Israel's naval blockade of Gaza, in place since 2007. Aid to Gaza remains restricted despite a ceasefire, with 1.6 million people facing acute food insecurity.