Global Sumud Flotilla: 48 Turkish Activists Detained by Israel, Türkiye Demands Answers

ANKARA, Oct 3:The Türkiye delegation of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) announced on Thursday that Israeli forces have illegally detained 48 Turkish activists during their interception of aid vessels heading to Gaza.

According to a statement shared with Anadolu Agency, the detained activists were on board multiple ships in the flotilla, including Sirius, HUGA-A, Austral-A, Florida-A, Alma, Spectre, Mali/Deir Yassine-A, Grande Blu, Morgana, Seulle-A, Capten Nikos-A, Allakatalla, Maria Cristina, Adaigo, and Mikeno-A. The activists were transferred to Port of Ashdod after the interception.

The delegation provided a full list of names of those taken, which includes prominent Turkish humanitarian workers, journalists, and civil society activists.

Turkish authorities have pledged to continue their efforts to ensure the safety of their citizens. The Turkish Embassy in Tel Aviv has initiated consular procedures for the detainees and is keeping their families updated.

Diplomatic sources confirmed that Türkiye is maintaining close contact with Israeli authorities while also engaging with international partners to pressure Israel into releasing the activists.

Despite the detentions, one flotilla ship, the Marinette, remains at sea. Activist Sinan Akilotu, speaking from aboard the vessel, told Anadolu that it is the last ship still sailing towards Gaza.

“Many activists have been abducted by Israel. The Marinette is the last ship still moving in the Sumud Flotilla. We hope to reach Gaza as a sign of hope. Returning is not an option,” he said.

Akilotu added that their ship suffered a technical malfunction and fell behind the convoy. They are currently located about 135 miles from Gaza’s territorial waters.

He also reported losing contact with other ships, including some believed to have entered Gaza’s waters.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is an international humanitarian mission carrying aid to Gaza, where over two million Palestinians are struggling under an Israeli blockade. The flotilla, composed of multiple ships from various countries, has faced repeated attempts by Israel to prevent its arrival.

Human rights groups and governments worldwide have condemned Israel’s actions, calling the detention of activists in international waters a violation of international law.