Activists on Gaza aid flotilla detained by Israel disembark in Crete

Around 175 activists from the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters off Crete on Thursday, disembarked in the Greek island on Friday.

Escorted by Greek coastguards, the mostly European nationals were taken by coach to the port of Atherinolakkos in the island's southeast.

What happened to the Gaza flotilla activists detained by Israel?

As their coaches approached the port, the activists chanted "Free Palestine." Israel's foreign ministry said around 175 activists had been removed from more than 20 boats, while flotilla organisers put the number at 211.

Two individuals were not returned to Greece: Saif Abu Keshek, suspected of affiliation with a terrorist organisation, and Thiago Avila, suspected of illegal activity, who were to be brought to Israel for questioning.

Where did the Gaza flotilla set sail from and what was its mission?

The flotilla comprised more than 50 vessels that departed in recent weeks from Marseille in France, Barcelona in Spain and Syracuse in Italy. Its stated aim was to break the blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.

Israel controls all entry points to Gaza and has been accused by the United Nations and foreign NGOs of severely restricting the flow of goods into the territory since its war against Hamas began in October 2023.

How did Israel and the United States respond to the flotilla?

Israel's foreign ministry dismissed the flotilla as a "provocation designed to divert attention from Hamas's refusal to disarm" and said it was serving "professional provocateurs."

The United States backed Israel's position, calling the flotilla a "stunt" and saying it expected allies to deny port access, docking, departure and refuelling to participating vessels.

A State Department spokesman said Washington was exploring imposing "consequences" on those who support the flotilla.

How did European governments react to the detention of activists?

Several European governments with nationals among those detained called on Israel to release the activists and condemned its actions as a flagrant violation of international law.

The interception drew wide international condemnation, with rights groups also calling for the immediate and unconditional release of those detained.

Has Israel intercepted the Gaza flotilla before?

This is not the first time Israeli forces have intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla. In the summer and autumn of 2025, a first voyage across the Mediterranean attracted worldwide attention.

Those boats were intercepted off the coasts of Egypt and the Gaza Strip in early October, with crew members, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, arrested and then expelled by Israel. The Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007.