Activists from the “Global Flotilla of Assumud” have arrived in Turkey following their interception and detention by Israeli forces while attempting to breach the 18‑year siege of Gaza. The flotilla, a convoy of over 40 vessels carrying volunteers from 72 countries and vital humanitarian aid, was seized in international waters, with more than 400 people taken into custody.

Turkish authorities report that 137 activists, including 36 Turkish nationals, were flown to Istanbul, where they were welcomed by relatives and supporters. Those detained described the experience as degrading and violent. Italian activist Paolo Romano said that Israeli forces boarded the ships by force, ordering passengers to kneel with their faces to the floor while subjecting them to beatings, insults, and psychological humiliation. Detainees were also pressured to confess to “illegal entry” despite being intercepted in international waters.

Malaysian activist Ilia Balqis described the ordeal as “the worst experience of her life,” detailing being handcuffed, denied movement, water, and medical attention. Swedish activist Greta Thunberg was reportedly held in poor conditions with limited food and water. Turkey condemned the operation as an act of terrorism, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan denouncing it as “barbarity” and the Foreign Minister praising the activists as “voices of humanity.”

Eyewitnesses confirm the interception took place some 88 kilometres off Gaza’s coast, with detainees enduring two days of harsh treatment before deportation under international pressure. Libyan activist Malek Qteit said he will organise a new mission to deliver aid to Gaza. For many, the flotilla is a rare and vital act of solidarity against what they see as Israel’s ongoing genocide of Gaza, which since October 2023 has left more than 67,000 dead and hundreds of thousands injured.