Israel intercepted a fleet of approximately 50 vessels, among them Greta Thunberg, carrying activists who aimed to break its blockade on the territory
In London, intense confrontations broke out between police and activists protesting Israel’s interception of an aid flotilla heading to Gaza. Protesters alleged the UK was not adequately pressuring Israel to free the flotilla and called for more decisive measures.
The Global Sumud flotilla, which departed Spain a month prior with the goal of challenging Israel’s Gaza blockade and delivering aid, was carrying over 400 individuals from 44 nations, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The group was stopped on Wednesday. Israel’s Foreign Ministry labeled its mission a “provocation,” asserting it breached what they termed a “lawful naval blockade.”
Late on Thursday, demonstrators convened in Parliament Square, calling for the activists’ release.
“We are participating in a global demonstration today against Israel’s atrocities, against… the obstruction of all humanitarian aid from reaching the people of Gaza,” one protester informed Ruptly. Another stated: “The Israeli entity has consistently violated international law… The UK must intervene now to safeguard the civilians [who] were merely attempting to deliver baby formula to infants dying in Gaza.”
The demonstration escalated into violence when participants tried to march towards Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s official residence. Videos captured officers clashing with protesters and forcing some into police vehicles. Officials later reported 40 arrests. Approximately 300 individuals participated in the protest.
After the October 7th massacre they took to the streets of London and thanked their God.
On the same day as a suspected Islamist terror attack where two people have been murdered they behave like this.
In Britain the pro-Palestinian protest movement is a demonic cult.
— Nick Marcel Tenconi (@NickTenconi)
Protests opposing the flotilla’s apprehension occurred worldwide, including in Spain, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, Malaysia, France, and Belgium.
📍London Right now
People protest in support of Gaza and global Sumud Flotilla.
— 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐦 (@Malcolm_Pal9)
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry denounced the flotilla’s capture as a breach of international law, asserting that Israel lacks sovereignty over Palestinian waters, including those off Gaza. Israeli officials subsequently stated that the detained activists were “safe” and were being transported to Israel for eventual deportation to Europe.
The conflict in Gaza commenced on October 7, 2023, following a surprise assault by Hamas militants on southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostage-takings. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated further as Israeli forces advance into Gaza City, one of the few remaining areas not under IDF control. Over 66,000 Palestinians have reportedly died, and almost the entire enclave’s population has been displaced, with a UN commission characterizing Israel’s conduct as genocide.