Gaza, Oct 3 (V7N) – Israel intercepted the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, which comprised over 40 vessels and carried hundreds of human rights activists. The flotilla’s detention of participants sparked protests in cities worldwide, including Istanbul, Athens, Buenos Aires, Rome, Berlin, Madrid, as well as in Jordan and Tunisia, as demonstrators condemned Israel for blocking aid to famine-stricken Gaza and detaining humanitarian workers.
 
The flotilla involved representatives from at least 44 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Malaysia, Turkey, and Colombia. World leaders reacted promptly, with some issuing direct condemnation and others calling on Israel to provide consular assistance to detained citizens.
 
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Israel’s attacks on the flotilla via X, stating that the flotilla has the right to free navigation in international waters under international law, and Israel should not interfere.
 
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry labeled Israel’s actions as “terrorist activity,” criticizing the Netanyahu government’s military approach that has pushed Gaza toward famine.
 
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim demanded the immediate release of Malaysian citizens aboard and warned that all lawful measures would be taken to hold Israel accountable, emphasizing that Israel is trampling not only Palestinian rights but also global conscience.
 
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for the release of South African participants, including Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, highlighting that the flotilla symbolizes solidarity with Gaza rather than confrontation.
 
Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the expulsion of Israeli diplomats and the suspension of Colombia’s free trade agreement in response to Israel’s actions, stressing that Colombia would seek legal remedies to ensure the return of its citizens.
 
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Israel assured no violent action would be taken against the flotilla, while Italian unions announced a general strike in solidarity with Gaza.
 
The UK expressed deep concern over Israel’s obstruction of the flotilla, maintaining contact with families of British citizens on board and urging safe delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
 
Greece issued a joint statement with Italy calling on Israel to guarantee the safety of flotilla participants, and Irish President Michael D. Higgins highlighted the urgent need to protect individuals delivering essential aid.
 
Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned Israel’s assault as “brutal” and demanded the release of detained activists, stressing that aid must reach Gaza. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxim Prévot called on Israel to comply with international law to ensure the safety and return of Belgian citizens. France urged Israel to provide consular support for French nationals and to allow their immediate return.
 
Earlier this week, 20 Democratic members of the U.S. Congress urged the White House to act to protect the flotilla. The United Nations has not issued an official statement, though Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on Palestine, criticized Western governments’ inaction, calling it “shameful” as Israel kidnaps those risking their lives to break the illegal blockade while Gaza remains a “graveyard for its people.”
 
The international response highlights widespread concern over Israel’s interception of humanitarian aid and activists attempting to reach Gaza amid the ongoing blockade and humanitarian crisis.
 
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