Four Gaza Flotilla Activists Deported by Israel
TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - Israeli authorities have deported four Italian citizens who were detained after their boat was intercepted in international waters while attempting to reach the Gaza Strip with aid. The move comes as the last boat of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) was stopped on Friday morning.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, more than 470 people were detained during the interception. The ministry said that authorities are in the process of deporting the remaining detainees. The four Italian citizens who have been deported will be sent back to Italy, where protests against Israel's actions have been ongoing.
The GSF had called Israel's interceptions "illegal," while Israeli officials described the flotilla's actions as a "provocation." The group claimed that they were attempting to break the naval blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza. However, Israel maintains that its navy told the boats to change course because they were approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade.
The interception sparked protests around the world, including a general strike in Italy. The Italian government had condemned Israel's actions, calling them "unacceptable." The European Union has also expressed concern over the situation, with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton saying that she was "deeply disturbed" by the reports of violence and detention.
The Global Sumud Flotilla is an international effort to bring aid to Gaza, which has been under a naval blockade since 2007. The blockade has had a devastating impact on the economy and humanitarian situation in Gaza, with many residents struggling to access basic necessities like food and medicine.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said that it will continue to enforce its naval blockade and take necessary measures to ensure public safety. The GSF has vowed to continue their efforts to break the blockade and bring aid to Gaza.
In a statement, Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi expressed his concern over the deportation of the four citizens, saying that "Italy is committed to protecting the rights of its citizens abroad." He added that Italy will continue to work with international partners to find a solution to the crisis in Gaza.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between Israel and the international community over the naval blockade and humanitarian situation in Gaza. As the world watches, the fate of the remaining detainees and the future of the flotilla's efforts remain uncertain.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
