Israel to deport Global Sumud Flotilla activists after Gaza-bound boats intercepted

The Israeli foreign ministry said on Thursday it would deport to Europe pro-Palestinian activists on board vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla that were intercepted by Israeli naval forces.

"Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin. The passengers are safe and in good health," the ministry said on X, after Israeli naval forces intercepted several vessels sailing towards Gaza.

Activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, who was sailing to Gaza aboard a boat which is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), has been kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla in the early hours of Thursday.

Mandela prerecorded a message in case of interception by Israel.

"I'm a citizen of the Republic of South Africa. If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the state of apartheid Israel," he said. "I call you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release."

The South African group of the flotilla has condemned the interception of its vessels by Israeli occupation forces in international waters, describing the attack as a deliberate attempt to block humanitarian aid to Gaza.

In a statement, the Global Sumud Flotilla (GDF) confirmed that the Israeli occupation forces ambushed the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, detaining some of the delegates and attacking the vessels with drones and water cannons.

"These actions represent yet another attempt to silence voices of solidarity and to prevent even the smallest lifeline of relief from reaching Gaza. This is illegal under international law," the GDF said in a statement.

The organisation emphasised that the flotilla's mission was purely humanitarian and peaceful.

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