The Global Sumud Gaza Flotilla set sail from Spain last month. It carried aid, activists, and politicians determined to break Israel’s blockade. The mission included more than 450 humanitarian workers from 44 countries.
Flotilla Interception and Pakistan’s Response
By Wednesday, Israel had intercepted 13 of the 45 vessels. Around 30 ships continued their journey toward Gaza’s coast. The United Nations has already warned of famine in the besieged enclave.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the Israeli action. He called it a “dastardly attack” and demanded the release of all detainees. He stressed that aid must reach the people of Gaza.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office also denounced the interception. It described the detention of activists as a violation of international law. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar echoed the same concerns.
Former senator Mushtaq Ahmed, who led the Pakistani team, was among those arrested. Advocacy groups confirmed his detention. In response, Jamat-i-Islami announced nationwide protests in solidarity with Gaza.
International Backlash Against Israel
The condemnation was not limited to Pakistan. Türkiye called the incident “an act of terror” and launched an investigation into the detention of its citizens. Colombia went further by expelling Israel’s diplomats and suspending its free trade agreement.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also voiced anger. He confirmed that Israeli forces detained eight Malaysians. Brazil condemned the interception too, stressing that the safety of detained activists is now Israel’s responsibility.
Protests have already broken out in Italy and Colombia. Italian unions even called a general strike. As a result, international pressure on Israel is growing rapidly.
The flotilla vowed to continue its mission despite threats. Activists say their only goal is to deliver essential aid and stand with the people of Gaza.
