Israel to deport flotilla activists headed to Gaza

Israel said on Oct 2 that it will deport pro-Palestinian activists on an aid flotilla intercepted at sea as they headed towards Gaza, adding that none of the vessels had successfully breached its maritime blockade.

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The Global Sumud Flotilla of around 45 vessels began its voyage in September, with politicians and activists including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg heading to Gaza, where the United Nations says famine has set in.

The Israeli navy has intercepted vessel after vessel at sea since Oct 1, after warning the activists against entering waters it says fall under its blockade, with Ms Thunberg’s boat among those stopped.

"None of the Hamas-Sumud provocation yachts have succeeded in their attempt to enter an active combat zone or breach the lawful naval blockade," Israel’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"One last vessel of this provocation remains at a distance. If it approaches, its attempt to enter an active combat zone and breach the blockade will also be prevented."

According to Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, 39 of the around 45 ships have been intercepted and were headed to the Israeli port city of Ashdod, according to state broadcaster ERT.

"All passengers are in good health. No violence has been exercised," Mr Gerapetritis said.

Israel said the activists would be deported to Europe, without specifying which countries they would be sent to.

"Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin," the foreign ministry said on X, posting photos of Ms Thunberg and other activists aboard a boat.