Israel Deports Over 130 Flotilla Activists to Turkey Amid Protests

According to the Israeli foreign ministry, over 130 activists detained while joining a flotilla have been sent back to Turkey on Saturday.

The activists, totaling 137, included individuals from various nations such as the USA, UK, and Italy. Specifically, four Italian participants were deported on Friday. The ministry emphasized its intent to promptly remove participants detained from the flotilla.

Originally departing from Spain the previous month, the Global Sumud Flotilla involved politicians and activists, prominently featuring Greta Thunberg. This flotilla consisted of nearly 50 vessels and 500 participants, marking the most significant attempt yet to challenge the maritime blockade on Gaza established by Israel 18 years ago. The mission aimed to deliver food supplies to Palestinians in Gaza, though reports indicate the flotilla encountered several drone attacks en route.

By Thursday, Israeli forces had intercepted most of the flotilla. Global condemnation followed, with Turkish diplomatic channels denouncing the interception as a violation of international law. The vessels were reportedly in international waters at the time of interception. On Saturday, mass demonstrations erupted globally, including substantial turnout in European cities supporting the flotilla's cause.

Israel's foreign affairs department classified the activists as provocateurs, accusing some of purposefully stalling the deportation process, hence extending their stay in Israel. Additionally, the ministry noted hesitation from various governments in accepting return flights for these individuals, though specifics on these governments or individuals resisting deportation were not disclosed.

More controversially, the Israeli government accused certain flotilla members of having affiliations with Hamas, albeit with limited evidence backing these claims. The accused strongly refuted these allegations, contending Israel sought justification for potential aggressive actions against them.

The flotilla's supporters organized massive demonstrations worldwide, with participation exceeding two million in Italy alone during a one-day general strike in solidarity with Gaza. In Rome, tens of thousands are anticipated at Saturday's demonstration. Spanish cities have also seen large rallies, especially in Barcelona, Madrid, and Lisbon. In Greece, Athens is gearing up for protests over the weekend.

Hamas issued a statement on Friday concerning President Trump's involvement. A U.S. official remarked to CBS News that while the U.S. views Hamas' response favorably, finer details remain unresolved. Following Hamas' statement, Trump expressed on social media that he believes Hamas is moving towards lasting peace and urged Israel to cease aerial assaults on Gaza.

An anonymous official disclosed to the Associated Press that Israel has currently adopted a defensive posture in Gaza without initiating any further military strikes. Nonetheless, Israeli forces maintain their positions within the territory.