Israel Seizes the Last Flotilla Vessel, Detains Hundreds — Who Will End the Blockade?

Israeli forces on Friday seized the Marinette, the last vessel of an international flotilla aiming to breach Gaza’s naval blockade. 

With that capture, more than 450 activists from over 40 countries were in Israeli custody, in what has become the largest flotilla operation yet.

The flotilla carried only symbolic humanitarian supplies but sought to draw attention to Gaza’s siege and humanitarian crisis. 

On board were prominent figures including climate activist Greta Thunberg, Mandla Mandela — grandson of Nelson Mandela — and several European lawmakers.

In Ashdod, where detainees were being processed, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir confronted the activists, mocking their mission and accusing them of backing “terrorism.” 

One activist shouted back, “Free Palestine,” as he spoke.

Deportations and detention conditions

By Friday evening, several European lawmakers had already been flown back to their countries, with officials indicating that most detainees will be deported quickly. 

Still, hundreds of others remain in holding centers in Israel’s south, where human rights groups say conditions are harsh.

Some activists have begun hunger strikes, while lawyers are preparing challenges under international law, arguing that many of the flotilla seizures took place in international waters. 

Israeli authorities, meanwhile, say the operation was necessary to prevent weapons smuggling and maintain security.

The incident has revived comparisons to earlier flotilla raids, most notably in 2010, when Israeli forces stormed the Mavi Marmara, killing nine activists and triggering international condemnation. 

While this time no bloodshed was reported, tensions are once again rising over Israel’s handling of foreign nationals at sea.

Protests intensify across the globe

The detentions have fueled demonstrations across continents. 

In Europe, Latin America and Asia, tens of thousands took to the streets waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine.” 

In Italy, a nationwide strike shuttered train lines, delayed flights and closed schools as unions demanded action. Elsewhere, protesters blocked roads, stormed train stations and clashed with police.

Governments across Europe and Latin America condemned the interceptions, with some demanding the immediate release of their citizens. Diplomatic strains have deepened as several nations weigh sanctions or expulsions of Israeli envoys.

Activists vow to continue

Despite the arrests, flotilla organizers pledged that their campaign would not end. 

One support boat, the Summertime Jong, turned back to Cyprus after narrowly avoiding interception. 

Its captain, Palestinian activist Osama Qashoo, said their mission had been to stand behind the main flotilla and provide support.

“We are on the right side of history by being on the side of the oppressed people,” Qashoo said. 

Malaysian activist Nadi Al-Nuri, part of the flotilla’s steering committee, echoed his resolve: “We will do this again and again until we reach our end — to stop the genocide and to liberate Palestine.”

Even before the last flotilla was seized, another group of nine boats had set sail from Italy, signaling that more confrontations at sea are imminent.