Israel’s interception of Gaza flotilla ignites mass protests, strikes, and diplomatic expulsions
Israel’s long-anticipated interception of a pro-Palestinian flotilla bound for Gaza has triggered mass protests across continents, diplomatic expulsions, and calls for strikes, after activists including Greta Thunberg were detained at sea.
The flotilla, known as the Global Sumud mission, comprised more than 40 civilian boats carrying around 500 activists, parliamentarians, and lawyers. Israeli naval forces boarded the vessels 75 miles off Gaza’s coast, warning beforehand that they were entering an active combat zone. Israel offered to channel any aid through official humanitarian corridors, branding the mission a dangerous stunt.
The images of boats being surrounded and boarded sparked immediate protests across Europe and Latin America. In Italy, where unions had already staged strike actions last month in support of the flotilla, thousands poured onto the streets in Rome, Milan, Turin, Genoa, Naples, and Pisa. Protesters occupied train platforms, blocked ports, and carried banners demanding “Free Palestine.” Italian media reported more than 10,000 marching in Rome alone.
The unrest has escalated into a nationwide confrontation. Two of Italy’s largest unions, CGIL and USB, declared a general strike for Friday. Dockworkers in Genoa vowed to block access to vessels they believe are tied to Israel. “The aggression against civilian ships carrying Italian citizens is an extremely serious matter,” CGIL said in a statement.
Demonstrations also erupted in Brussels, Athens, Berlin, Buenos Aires, and Madrid. In Spain, activists blocked Madrid’s Gran Via as the government called on Israel to safeguard the detained passengers.
Diplomatic consequences came swiftly. Colombia’s president Gustavo Petro expelled all remaining Israeli diplomats, denouncing what he called “a new international crime” by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Petro demanded the release of two Colombian women among those arrested and pledged solidarity with the mission. Ireland’s foreign minister described the flotilla as a peaceful humanitarian effort, while Sinn Féin accused Israel of “kidnapping” those on board, including an Irish senator.
Turkey’s foreign ministry labelled the interception “an act of terror” and Malaysia’s prime minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned Israel for targeting unarmed civilians. Malaysian singer Zizi Kirana, among the detained, posted a video from aboard before being taken into custody. Anwar vowed to pursue “all legitimate and lawful means” to secure their release.
Mexico, Brazil, and other governments joined the chorus of criticism. Brazil demanded Israel lift “immediately and unconditionally” all restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza, while Mexico insisted its citizens’ rights be fully respected.
The diplomatic crisis comes against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, which has already fuelled global protests and strained relations with allies. The interception, coinciding with visible public support for the flotilla, has intensified accusations that Israel is targeting civilian solidarity missions.
Israel maintains that the flotilla’s entry into a combat zone posed security risks. Officials said activists were repeatedly warned to change course and that aid could be delivered through safe channels. Critics argue the response was disproportionate and aimed at silencing dissent.
For now, demonstrations continue to swell. In Italy, chants of “block everything” echoed through Rome’s Termini station as trains ground to a halt. In Genoa, protesters marched towards the port in defiance of police. In Buenos Aires, thousands gathered in solidarity, waving Palestinian flags.
With diplomats expelled, unions preparing to strike, and governments condemning Israel’s actions, the fallout from the flotilla’s interception is fast becoming an international flashpoint. What began as a sea-bound mission of protest has now rippled across the world, igniting a political storm that shows no sign of abating.