In a shocking development, Pakistan and several countries strongly condemned Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) — a 45-vessel humanitarian mission sailing towards Gaza to break the siege and deliver much-needed aid. According to flotilla organizers, Israeli forces intercepted 39 boats carrying activists, politicians, and aid workers, including climate activist Greta Thunberg and former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan. Only one vessel managed to continue towards Gaza.
Pakistan’s Strong Reaction
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the “dastardly attack” on the flotilla in a post on X, urging the immediate release of all detainees. He called the Israeli action “barbarity” and stressed that humanitarian aid must be allowed to reach the Palestinian people suffering under blockade.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) also issued a strong statement, terming Israel’s move a “deliberate obstruction of humanitarian relief” and a violation of international law. The FO demanded the swift release of all activists, including former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, and urged the international community to hold Israel accountable.
Global Backlash Against Israel
The attack sparked international outrage:
- Turkey labeled the assault an “act of terror” and launched an investigation into the detention of its 24 citizens.
- South Africa demanded the release of activists, including Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela (Al Jazeera).
- Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed eight Malaysians were detained and vowed to work with world leaders for their release.
- Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro expelled Israel’s diplomatic mission and ended its free trade deal with Israel in response (BBC).
- Spain summoned Israel’s representative in Madrid, as 65 Spaniards were onboard the flotilla.
- Brazil condemned the interception, stating it endangered the lives of peaceful activists (Reuters).
Humanitarian Concerns
Cameras broadcasting live showed Israeli soldiers boarding the flotilla, while activists, wearing life vests, raised their hands in surrender. Videos released by the Israeli foreign ministry confirmed Greta Thunberg among those detained.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry described the interception as a violation of international law, stating Israel has no sovereignty over Gaza’s territorial waters. Protests erupted across Italy, Colombia, Greece, Ireland, and Turkey in solidarity with the activists.
Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Palestine
Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani termed the incident “state terrorism and barbaric savagery,” calling for urgent steps to ensure uninterrupted aid to Gaza. Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced nationwide protests in Pakistan to show solidarity.
Pakistan reiterated its unwavering support for Palestine, demanding an end to the Gaza blockade and reaffirming its stance for a sovereign Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
