Activists on Gaza aid flotilla detained by Israel disembark in Crete: AFP
Dozens of activists from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters near Crete disembarked on the Greek island on May 1. Israel transferred around 175 activists from over 20 boats, coordinating with Greece to offload them, while flotilla organizers reported a higher number of participants. Several European nations criticized Israel's actions as violations of international law, but the US supported the move, calling the flotilla a 'stunt'.
- ▪Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters off Crete on April 30.
- ▪Approximately 175 activists were transferred to Greek authorities and disembarked on May 1.
- ▪The US backed Israel's actions, while several European countries condemned them as breaches of international law.
- ▪The flotilla aimed to break the Gaza blockade and deliver humanitarian aid despite a fragile ceasefire.
- ▪Initial flotilla consisted of over 50 boats, reduced to more than 20 by the time of interception.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Activists on Gaza aid flotilla detained by Israel disembark in Crete: AFPSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxIsrael's Foreign Ministry said around 175 activists had been taken off more than 20 boats on April 30.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 01, 2026, 04:20 PMUpdated May 01, 2026, 04:21 PMListenATHENS – Dozens of activists on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla which was intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters off Crete disembarked on May 1 in the Greek island, an AFP journalist saw.Escorted by Greek coast guards, some 175 activists were taken in four buses to a town whose name was not disclosed by the authorities.Israel’s Foreign Ministry earlier said around 175 activists had been taken off more than 20 boats on April 30.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.