Developments in the Resilience Flotilla: Spain Takes Diplomatic Action, UK Voices Concern
Events surrounding the “Resilience Flotilla” have intensified, as some of its vessels near Gaza while others have been intercepted by the Israeli navy.
On Thursday, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares announced that he had summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires in Madrid following the interception of the humanitarian convoy. “Today I summoned the Israeli representative in Madrid,” Albares told the public broadcaster TVE, adding that 65 Spanish nationals were on board the flotilla.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom expressed its concern over the Israeli navy’s actions, confirming that it was in contact with the families of several British citizens on board and in communication with Israeli authorities to ensure their safety.
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Thursday that all activists detained on the vessels would be deported to Europe. “The passengers are safe on their yachts and are being transferred to Israel, where deportation procedures to Europe will begin. They are safe and in good health,” the ministry stated on X.
According to flotilla organizers, 13 boats carrying around 200 people were intercepted on Wednesday evening, while 30 others continued toward Gaza. Among those detained was Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, who appeared in a video released by Israeli authorities collecting her belongings while surrounded by armed soldiers.
Organizers condemned what they described as an “illegal attack on unarmed aid workers” and called on governments and international institutions to demand the protection and release of all passengers. At 00:20 GMT on Thursday, they confirmed that “30 boats are continuing their journey toward Gaza, 46 nautical miles away, despite repeated assaults” by the Israeli navy.
The flotilla, which set sail from Spain in early September, includes about 45 vessels carrying several hundred pro-Palestinian activists from over 40 countries. The ships are transporting infant formula, food, and medical supplies, with the declared aim of breaking Israel’s blockade on Gaza through what they describe as a “peaceful and non-violent mission.”
In addition to Greta Thunberg, other notable participants include Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela and former South African MP, and Ada Colau, former mayor of Barcelona.
