Four Italian citizens were deported from Israel following their detention by Israeli authorities as part of an operation against boats in a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza. The incident involved the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which reportedly saw over 470 individuals detained according to Israeli police. The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed the deportation of four individuals, stating that the remaining detainees are also undergoing deportation procedures.
The flotilla, aimed at delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, encountered obstacles when Israeli naval forces intercepted the last boat on Friday morning. The GSF characterized these interceptions as illegal, while Israel defended its actions as necessary due to security concerns, citing a lawful naval blockade and the need to prevent boats from entering what it deemed an active combat zone.
The initial interceptions took place approximately 70 nautical miles offshore in areas considered international waters where Israel claims limited jurisdiction. In its statement, the Israeli foreign ministry emphasized that all detained individuals are safe and healthy. However, the GSF alleged that many activists were subjected to violence during the interceptions.
Among the detainees was Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, although details regarding her condition remain unclear. The flotilla claimed that communications were disrupted during the operation, leaving the status of many participants unknown.
The GSF stated that all 42 vessels involved had been unlawfully intercepted and called for international governments and organizations to ensure the safety and release of the crew and volunteers. As of the latest reports, several vessels are reportedly situated at the Israeli Ashdod Naval Base, while inquiries have been made to the Israel Defense Forces regarding the future of the seized boats and the duration of the detentions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c701y9de2dro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss