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UN experts demand release of Gaza aid flotilla activists detained by Israel

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Global Sumud Flotilla activists, Brazilian Thiago de Avila (C) and Spanish activist of Palestinian origin Saif Abukeshek (not seen), who [were] detained by the Israeli army in international waters off the coast of Crete on the night of April 29, attend their trial in Ashkelon, Israel on May 05, 2026. [Stringer – Anadolu Agency]

UN experts on Friday called for the immediate release of activists detained after Israeli forces intercepted a humanitarian flotilla carrying aid to Gaza in international waters in late April, Anadolu Agency reports.

In a statement, the experts said they were “seriously concerned” by the seizure of 22 civilian boats and the detention of 180 people about 500 nautical miles off Israel’s coast on April 29.

“The attack against a civilian flotilla engaged in a peaceful and strictly humanitarian mission to deliver life-saving goods to the Palestinian people is further evidence that Israel is determined to continue its genocidal policy of suffocating the population of Gaza by any means necessary,” the experts said.

They described the interception as “a blatant violation of international law,” including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and criticized Greek authorities for failing to respond to distress calls from the flotilla despite the boats being within Greece’s search-and-rescue zone, as well as for allowing Israeli forces to intervene.

READ: Israeli court rejects appeal over detention extension of Gaza flotilla activists

The experts also expressed concern over reports of severe mistreatment after detainees were released in Crete, saying “at least 35 individuals described severe mistreatment and sexual assault, that may amount to torture, inhumane and degrading treatment.”

They said two activists, Brazilian national Thiago Avila and Spanish-Swedish national Saif Abu Keshek, were transferred to Israel and remain in detention under harsh conditions while on hunger strike.

“As a party to the Fourth Geneva Convention, Israel must allow and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the residents of Gaza,” the experts said, adding that starvation of civilians as a method of warfare is unlawful.

The experts urged states to take necessary action to prevent genocide and to support all efforts to deliver aid to the Palestinian population.

READ: Brazilian President Lula calls for release of Global Sumud Flotilla activists detained by Israel

Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/

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