Countries Unite Against Israel’s Seizure of Humanitarian Fleet

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - A coalition of countries, including Indonesia, has strongly condemned Israel’s attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla, calling it a grave violation of international law and humanitarian principles.

The joint statement - issued by the foreign ministers of Indonesia, Turkey, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Jordan, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritania, Pakistan, South Africa, and Spain - was posted Thursday, May 7, 2026, on the official X account of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Israel’s assault on the vessels and the unlawful detention of humanitarian activists in international waters constitutes a clear breach of international law and humanitarian law,” the statement read, as quoted by Antara.

The ministers expressed deep concern for the safety of the activists and urged Israel to ensure their immediate release. They also called on the international community to uphold its moral and legal obligations in protecting civilians and ensuring accountability for violations.

Echoing these concerns, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Thameen Al‑Kheetan said Wednesday that Israel must release the detained flotilla members unconditionally. He stressed that showing solidarity and delivering aid to Palestinians in Gaza “is not a crime.”

Al‑Kheetan further urged Israel to end arbitrary detention practices and the use of broadly defined terrorism laws, which he said contravene international human rights standards. He also called for lifting the blockade on Gaza and facilitating the entry of sufficient humanitarian assistance.

The Global Sumud Flotilla departed Barcelona on April 15. On April 30, Israeli forces intercepted the vessels near Crete, damaging engines and navigation systems, according to activists. A total of 180 activists were detained, with 178 later released.

Two remain in custody: Saif Abukeshek, a Spanish‑Swedish citizen of Palestinian descent, and Thiago Avila from Brazil. Israel alleges they were “assisting the enemy during wartime” and linked to a “terrorist organization.” ***