Strong reactions, protests trail Israel's interception of Global Sumud flotilla

Israel’s interception of several vessels of the Global Sumud flotilla carrying aid to Gaza has sparked global reactions and even protests in some countries as people condemn the act.

Countries in Europe Africa and Asia have united in their calling for Israel to respect international law and human rights in its handling of the occupants of the vessels in the flotilla.

Spokesperson for the British government released a statement saying they had been in touch with Israel.

"We have been in contact with the Israeli authorities to make clear that we expect the situation to be resolved safely, in line with international law and with due respect for the rights of all those on board.

"The aid carried by the flotilla should be turned over to humanitarian organisations on the ground to be delivered safely into Gaza. It is the responsibility of the Israeli government to resolve the atrocious humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

South Africa also joined the international calls especially as Mandla Mandela the grandson of its former President Nelson Mandela is thought to be in the flotilla.

"The interception in international waters off the coast of Gaza reinforces Israel’s continued violation of international law and infliction of suffering, including starvation, on the Palestinian people..."

"South Africa calls on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, as the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel," it said in a statement on Thursday.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the expulsion of Israel’s entire diplomatic delegation, following the detention of two Colombian women who were part of the humanitarian flotilla.

Calling the detentions a potential “new international crime” Petro also announced the immediate termination of Colombia’s free trade agreement with Israel.

And Türkiye’s foreign ministry called it “an act of terror” that endangered the lives of innocent civilians.

In Istanbul hundreds of demonstrators gathered in support of Palestinians and in condemnation of Israeli actions.

Protesters assembled outside the Israeli consulate, chanting anti-Israel slogans and urging the Turkish government to take stronger measures in defence of the flotilla.

In Buenos Aires, protesters took to the streets demanding the release of the detained activists. Organisers called the interception a criminal attack and urged world leaders to condemn Israel.

In Greece, many also gathered outside the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The flotilla consists of 40 civilian boats carrying around 500 people including parliamentarians, lawyers and activists, and aims to break Israel's blockade of Gaza.

Israel's Foreign Ministry said several vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) had been "safely stopped" and those aboard were being transferred to an Israeli port to be deported.

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News Politics Gaza Israel Humanitarian aid Global Sumud Flotilla