Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: At least 87 activists detained by Israeli authorities have begun a hunger strike following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, according to the organization and international reports.
The aid convoy, which departed from Marmaris last week with more than 50 vessels, aimed to break the blockade on Gaza and deliver humanitarian assistance.
Flotilla organizers said Israeli naval forces intercepted the final vessel, Lina Al-Nabulsi, in international waters, detaining multiple passengers and transferring hundreds of participants to Israeli custody.
The organization stated that the hunger strike is being carried out in protest against the arrests and in solidarity with thousands of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.
Israeli officials confirmed that detainees are being transferred to Israel, describing the flotilla mission as a “publicity effort.”
Participants reportedly included citizens from Indonesia, Ireland, Spain, Türkiye, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Brazil and other countries. Indonesia has expressed concern over the detention of its nationals and demanded their immediate release.
Several countries have criticized the operation, calling it a violation of international law and human rights. The United States has also imposed sanctions on four flotilla participants, accusing them of links to Hamas, a claim the activists reject.
