Israel Deports Four Activists from Gaza Flotilla Amid Rising Tensions

Fri Oct 10 2025 18:25:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a recent escalation of maritime confrontations, Israel has deported four Italian citizens who were part of a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. The Israeli government has described the flotilla's actions as provocative and illegal.

Four Italian activists were deported from Israel after their involvement in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces, prompting global protests and discussions about maritime law and humanitarian access. Over 470 individuals are reportedly detained, with continued calls for their release from international organizations.

Four Italian citizens have been deported from Israel after being detained by Israeli authorities when boats in a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza were intercepted. This action, noted by Israel's foreign ministry, is part of a larger response to the flotilla's presence, which has drawn international attention.

Israeli police reported detaining over 470 people during the flotilla operation. These deportations coincided with the last boat of the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) being intercepted by Israeli forces on Friday morning.

The Global Sumud Flotilla has claimed that Israel's interceptions are illegal, while the Israeli government characterized the flotilla's activities as a provocation. The flotilla's blockade has led to protests worldwide, including a general strike in Italy.

The initial boats were stopped approximately 70 nautical miles off Gaza's coast in international waters, areas where Israel maintains a naval presence but lacks jurisdiction. Israeli officials have asserted that the flotilla was warned of approaching an active combat zone.

In its official statement, the Israeli foreign ministry confirmed that the four deported activists were part of a greater group still being processed, with a priority on concluding this situation rapidly. All detainees were said to be safe and in good health, although GSF has alleged mistreatment during the interceptions.

The flotilla, which included a notable mention of activist Greta Thunberg aboard one of the vessels, launched from Spain last month and has drawn significant global support. The GSF accused Israeli forces of illegally intercepting all 42 of their vessels, with the final boat, Marinette, being boarded in international waters.

As further unrest continues regarding the maritime blockade and the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the GSF has urged international governments and institutions to advocate for the safety and immediate release of all detained activists.

This series of events reflects growing tensions surrounding humanitarian aid access to Gaza amidst ongoing conflicts in the region, with further developments likely as these situations unfold.