Israel intercepts Gaza aid flotilla, detains Irish president's sister

Israeli forces have intercepted multiple vessels carrying humanitarian aid toward Gaza, detaining dozens of activists including at least six Irish citizens, according to organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The flotilla said 28 boats were stopped in international waters on May 18, around 70 nautical miles off the coast of Cyprus. The group added that it had lost contact with the intercepted vessels, Sky News reports.

Organisers said at least six of the 15 Irish participants were among those detained, including Dr Margaret Connolly, the sister of Irish President Catherine Connolly. Pre-recorded videos released by the flotilla appeared to show participants speaking shortly before the interception.

“I am so proud to be taking part in this flotilla. This is the largest one to date, and now we sail for Gaza to open a humanitarian pathway to bring much needed aid and medical supply to the people of Gaza,” Dr Connolly said in her message. “I feel utterly compelled - as a mother, a doctor, and as a human being - to help in this flotilla.”

The Global Sumud Flotilla said a total of 426 people from 39 countries were taking part in the mission, using more than 50 vessels. It said the boats had departed from southern Türkiye on May 14 after previous attempts to deliver aid to Gaza were also intercepted.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry described the flotilla as a “provocation” and said there was no aid on board. Israeli authorities said vessels were instructed to change course before being stopped.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the operation, saying it “thwarted a malicious plan designed to break the isolation we are imposing on Hamas terrorists in Gaza.”

Organisers, however, said the detained Irish citizens had been “kidnapped” and called on the Irish government to respond. Irish officials said they were monitoring the situation and providing consular assistance to affected citizens.

By Sabina Mammadli