Global Affairs Canada has confirmed that two Canadian citizens were detained by Israeli forces while they were part of a flotilla aiming to deliver aid to Gaza. This flotilla was intercepted as it attempted to break Israel’s long-standing blockade of the Palestinian territory.
Background of the Gaza Flotilla
The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) organized this mission, which involved over 40 vessels carrying approximately 500 participants, including activists, parliamentarians, and notable figures like Greta Thunberg. The flotilla’s aim was to transport essential food and medical supplies to the people of Gaza.
Recent Interception by Israeli Forces
On Wednesday, the Israeli navy intercepted this segment of the flotilla. Following the interception, the Israel Foreign Ministry announced that they deported 137 individuals categorized as “provocateurs” from the flotilla to Turkey, including citizens from various countries such as the U.S., Morocco, and Switzerland. Canada was not mentioned in this announcement.
Allegations of Treatment by Israeli Authorities
The Global Sumud Flotilla claimed that participants were illegally detained and faced harsh treatment after their interception. They reported that communication systems were jammed, and some activists suffered degrading treatment. The GSF described the event as a violent suppression of their humanitarian mission.
Continued Efforts to Reach Gaza
Despite the interception, other Canadian citizens attempted to reach Gaza as part of a different organization, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. These individuals expressed their determination to continue their mission, despite the risks posed by Israeli military actions.
Widespread Protests Across Europe
The interception of the flotilla has triggered significant protests in various European cities. Large crowds gathered in Rome, where demonstrators marched with Palestinian flags, showcasing solidarity with the Gaza population. Organizers estimated that over one million participants turned out for this event.
- Protests also occurred in Paris, Barcelona, and London.
- Italian unions organized a general strike supporting the flotilla, leading to demonstrations that reportedly attracted more than two million people, though the interior ministry estimated around 400,000 attendees.
As this situation develops, Global Affairs Canada is in communication with local authorities to assist the detained Canadians while monitoring the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
