Israeli naval forces intercepted almost the entire Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission bound for Gaza, detaining more than 400 activists on Thursday. Among those arrested was Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, according to an Israeli official.
Of the 41 vessels, 39 were stopped in an operation lasting 12 hours. Only two managed to breach the blockade, carrying what activists described as symbolic aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave. The intercepted ships and their crews were escorted to southern Israel, with some detainees taken to a prison in Ashdod and others transferred to facilities in the Negev desert. Authorities said the activists would be recorded and deported.
Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin. The passengers are safe and in good health. pic.twitter.com/pzzitP5jN8
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 2, 2025
Hunger strike by Greek participants
Members of the flotilla accused Israel of “piracy” and violating international law. Eleven of the 27 Greek activists announced they were beginning a hunger strike while in custody. Greek officials confirmed that all nationals are in good health and have not been subjected to violence, adding that diplomatic démarches have been made to Israel for their protection.
UN condemns blockade extension
The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights criticized Israel’s actions, noting that the interception in international waters “extends the illegal blockade of Gaza.” Spokesman Thamin al-Khitani stressed Israel’s duty as an occupying power to ensure access to food and medicine for civilians or to allow impartial humanitarian aid deliveries. He also urged respect for the rights of detainees, including their right to challenge the legality of detention.
Netanyahu hails naval forces
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the military for what he called a successful defense of Israel’s security and international standing. “I congratulate our navy soldiers and commanders who completed their mission during Yom Kippur in the most professional way,” he said. “Their great action prevented dozens of ships from entering a war zone and repelled a campaign of delegitimization against Israel.”
Interesting those are the pictures you chose. I have one too. pic.twitter.com/H1uFUo1WY6
— Tori (@ToriGlaseer) October 2, 2025
Global protests intensify
The raid sparked protests across the world. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked streets in major European cities and, in some cases, vandalized businesses accused of complicity in Israel’s actions.
Pro-Palestinian activists protest to condemn the interception of the vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla, outside the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs in Athens, Greece, October 1, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki
In Barcelona, protesters smashed shop windows and spray-painted anti-Israel slogans on chains like Starbucks, Burger King, and Carrefour. In Italy, students occupied universities in Milan and Rome, blocked access to Bologna University, and staged road blockades in Turin. Italian unions declared a general strike, while over 100 demonstrations were held nationwide.
Healthcare workers in Rome read aloud the names of more than 1,600 medical staff reported killed in Gaza.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators carry flags during a protest to condemn the Israeli forces’ interception of some of the vessels of the Global Sumud Flotilla aiming to reach Gaza and break Israel’s naval blockade, in Bologna, Italy, October 2, 2025. REUTERS/Michele Lapini
Large rallies also took place in Dublin, Paris, Berlin, Geneva, and beyond. Demonstrations spread to Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Karachi, and Istanbul, where protesters gathered outside the Israeli consulate chanting: “Israel slaughters humanity, not Gaza.”
In Greece, marches filled the streets of Athens, Thessaloniki, and other cities, with demonstrators chanting against “any participation in genocide” in Gaza.
