Israel deports 171 activists from the "Global Sumud" flotilla operating in the Mediterranean

Israeli authorities confirmed this Sunday the deportation of 171 international activists who were part of the "Global Sumud" flotilla, intercepted while attempting to break the maritime blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip.

According to the statement, the detainees were transferred to the port of Ashdod, where they underwent security interrogations and medical examinations before being sent for deportation.

The operation was conducted by the Israeli Navy after the lead ship of the flotilla approached the Israeli-established maritime exclusion zone. The vessel was escorted into Israeli territorial waters without resistance.

Among those deported were several activists and representatives of international NGOs who claimed their objective was to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israel, for its part, claims that the flotilla had logistical ties to organizations linked to Hamas, justifying the action.

The "Global Sumud" was composed of multiple civilian vessels registered in European countries, operating under the banner of a campaign for "Gaza freedom." The Israeli government declared that any attempt to violate the blockade is considered provocative and a risk to national security.

Humanitarian organizations called for the immediate release of the activists and reiterated their right to send civilian aid to the population of the Gaza Strip. Israeli authorities, however, stated that those involved will be banned from entering Israel indefinitely.