Pakistan and 10 other countries have strongly condemned Israel’s actions against the Global Sumud Flotilla, describing it as a peaceful humanitarian effort aimed at highlighting the crisis in Gaza.
In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Turkiye, Brazil, Jordan, Spain, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Colombia, Maldives, South Africa and Libya called the attack on the vessels and the detention of activists in international waters a clear violation of international law and humanitarian principles.
The ministers expressed concern for the safety of the civilians on board and urged Israeli authorities to ensure their immediate release. They also called on the international community to uphold international law, protect civilians and ensure accountability.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, also condemned the incident in a post on X.
The condemnation followed reports from organisers that 211 activists were “kidnapped” by Israeli forces during a raid on the flotilla in international waters near the Greek island of Crete. However, Israel’s foreign ministry earlier said 175 people had been detained.
According to organisers, the flotilla — made up of more than 50 boats — was on its way to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid when Israeli forces intercepted it. The vessels had departed from Marseille in France, Barcelona in Spain and Syracuse in Italy.
A spokesperson for the flotilla said the operation took place more than 1,000 kilometres from Gaza, marking an unusually distant interception. Activists onboard reported that Israeli military boats approached them, used lasers and weapons, and ordered passengers to surrender.
Communications with several vessels were lost during the operation, and organisers said some boats were stormed by Israeli forces. Tracking data suggested the interception occurred within Greece’s exclusive economic zone.
Former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmad was also part of the mission, though it remains unclear whether he was among those detained.
In a statement, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the operation, saying the navy successfully prevented the flotilla from reaching Gaza.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the detained activists would be transferred to Greece in coordination with Greek authorities.
Meanwhile, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) accused Israel of restricting access to water in Gaza, calling it a form of collective punishment. The organisation said limited access to water and sanitation supplies has worsened humanitarian conditions in the territory.
MSF warned that shortages of clean water and essential supplies could have serious consequences for public health, hygiene and living conditions in Gaza.
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