Christian Smalls from the United States and Hatem Aouini from Tunisia, the last two volunteers detained after Israeli forces intercepted the Handala aid ship, were released and deported via Jordan on July 31, concluding the ordeal for all 21 civilians aboard the vessel.

The Handala, carrying baby formula, food, and medicine, was intercepted in international waters 40 nautical miles off Gaza’s coast, despite being crewed entirely by unarmed civilians from over a dozen countries. Detainees reported overcrowded cells, degrading conditions, and abuse during their five-day detention, with Smalls describing physical assault upon arrival at Givon Prison.

The interception has been condemned as a violation of international law, with legal advocates denouncing Israel’s seizure of a humanitarian ship in international waters and its mistreatment of civilians. Volunteers insisted the mission was peaceful, intended to draw attention to Gaza’s deepening humanitarian catastrophe under blockade.

This marks the second time in as many months that Israeli forces have blocked a civilian flotilla headed for Gaza, underscoring the tightening siege as famine warnings intensify and aid remains locked out.