Israel Intercepts Gaza-Bound Aid Flotilla Off Crete, Detains Two Activists

Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of 22 boats carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza in international waters off the southern Greek island of Crete on April 30, 2026. The Global Sumud Flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona, Spain, earlier that month, included 175 activists from various countries.

Israeli authorities detained all aboard, releasing most in Crete but transporting two leaders to Israel for questioning. The two detained activists are Saif Abukeshek, a Palestinian-Spanish citizen, and Thiago Ávila, a Brazilian citizen, both members of the flotilla's steering committee.

Israel's Foreign Ministry stated Abukeshek is suspected of affiliation with a terrorist organization and Ávila of illegal activity. No evidence was provided in the announcement.

Spain and Brazil issued a joint statement condemning the detention as a kidnapping in international waters and a violation of international law. They demanded the immediate release of their citizens and consular access. " — Joint statement from governments of Brazil and Spain, May 1, 2026 (AP News) The Global Sumud Flotilla denounced the interception as piracy and reported that Israeli forces stormed vessels, smashed engines, and detained participants.

Organizers claimed activists were denied food and water, forced to sleep on flooded floors, and subjected to violence, including punches, kicks, and gunfire during resistance to the transfer of Abukeshek and Ávila. , Australia, Colombia, Italy, Ukraine, and other nations receiving hospital treatment in Crete.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry justified the early action due to the large number of boats and the need to prevent a breach of the naval blockade, adding that an inspection revealed materials appearing to be drugs and contraceptives.

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