Freedom Flotilla Coalition: International Community Must Hold Israel Accountable
According to webangah News Agency, Huda Araf, a member of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, told Al Jazeera that the Israeli navy had seized the Palestinian solidarity vessel “Maddalena” and diverted it to Ashdod port.
Araf emphasized the ship was intercepted in international waters, calling Israel’s actions illegal and without legal justification.
The activist accused Israeli forces of unlawfully commandeering the vessel, kidnapping its crew, and unjustly cutting off all interaction with passengers.
Araf called on the international community to hold Israel accountable and urged governments to take punitive measures against Tel Aviv.
The Freedom flotilla Coalition vowed to continue sending ships to break Gaza’s blockade.
Israel’s Foreign ministry stated activists from the “Maddalena” were transferred to Ben Gurion Airport for deportation procedures. Those refusing deportation agreements would face court proceedings.
The civilian-registered sailboat departed Catania’s Port of Saint John on June 1 carrying 12 passengers – including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and irish actor Liam cunningham – aiming to deliver humanitarian aid through gaza’s blockade.
The coalition reported losing contact with the vessel last night when Israeli forces stormed it and abducted those aboard.
