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The most prominent passenger on board the boats was Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Israeli forces deployed security forces around her. Israel also detained Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, a former Pakistani MP linked to Hamas. More than 200 people from 37 countries aboard the flotilla have also been detained.
Israel stops multiple boats heading to Gaza
The most prominent passenger on board the boats was Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Israeli forces deployed security forces around her. Israel also detained Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, a former Pakistani MP linked to Hamas. More than 200 people from 37 countries aboard the flotilla have also been detained.
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The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a statement on X stating that the boats of the "Hamas-Sumud Flotilla" were safely intercepted and the passengers were brought to an Israeli port. The ministry also stated that Greta Thunberg and her companions are safe and sound.
Already several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port.
Greta and her friends are safe and healthy. pic.twitter.com/PA1ezier9s— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 1, 2025
The purpose of this "Global Sumud Flotilla" operation was to deliver medicine and food to people stranded in Gaza. The operation included more than 40 civilian boats carrying approximately 500 lawmakers, lawyers, and activists.
Members of the flotilla shared several videos on Telegram, showing their passports and stating that they were being forcibly taken to Israel. They described their journey as a completely "non-violent and humanitarian mission."
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Turkey has condemned the Israeli action as an "attack" and an "act of terrorism." The Turkish Foreign Ministry stated that this action endangered the lives of innocent civilians. Furthermore, countries like Spain and Italy also sent boats and drones to assist their citizens in need.
Massive protests erupted in Italy against this action. Israel warned the boats to return, but the flotilla members remained steadfast in their mission.
This global campaign challenging the blockade of Gaza was significant for human rights advocates and the international community. However, the Israeli military's actions have disrupted this effort. This incident has sparked a new controversy amid the complex situation in the Middle East and global politics.
