Source : TRT World
ISTANBUL, Oct 4, 2025 – Israeli authorities deported 137 activists from the intercepted Gaza aid flotilla to Turkey on Saturday, escalating tensions over the ongoing blockade of the enclave. The move follows the dramatic seizure of vessels by Israeli forces earlier this week, drawing sharp condemnation from human rights groups and sparking solidarity actions across Europe.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising 13 boats carrying humanitarian aid and over 450 international volunteers, set sail on October 2 in a bid to challenge Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. Commandos boarded the ships in international waters, detaining crew and passengers in what organizers described as a “brutal assault.” Among those released and flown back were activists from dozens of countries, including prominent figures like Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who alleged mistreatment during her brief detention.
Thunberg and others reported instances of physical beatings, denial of medical care, and harsh interrogation tactics while held in Israeli facilities. “We were met with violence for trying to deliver aid to starving people,” Thunberg said in a statement upon arrival in Istanbul, vowing to continue the campaign.
Amnesty International swiftly decried the interception as “unlawful,” accusing Israel of using excessive force to enforce a blockade that amounts to collective punishment. The rights group highlighted how the restrictions have exacerbated Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating deliberate efforts to starve the population amid a prolonged conflict.
While most detainees were repatriated via commercial and chartered flights, two Canadian citizens remain in custody, prompting diplomatic intervention from Ottawa. Global Affairs Canada confirmed it is closely monitoring the cases and providing consular support, though details on their conditions remain limited.
The flotilla’s disruption has ignited global backlash. On October 3, Italian trade unions initiated nationwide strikes in solidarity with the activists, halting operations in key sectors like transportation and manufacturing to protest what they called “state piracy on the high seas.” Demonstrations are planned in major cities worldwide this weekend, with organizers urging an end to the blockade.
Israeli officials defended the operation as necessary to prevent weapons smuggling, stating that the vessels carried no verifiable aid and posed a security threat. The Foreign Ministry announced that all deportees underwent standard immigration processing before release.
As the dust settles, the incident underscores the deepening divide over Gaza’s plight, with aid groups warning of worsening famine risks if access remains restricted. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, behind the Global Sumud effort, pledged to launch further missions, declaring, “The sea will not be silenced.”
This report is based on statements from flotilla organizers, human rights monitors, and official releases. TRT World contributed to the coverage.