A boat from a flotilla that had been carrying aid to Gaza until it was intercepted by Israel has docked in Cyprus, the Mediterranean island’s government said on Friday.
The vessel, carrying 21 foreigners, requested to dock in Larnaca for refuelling and humanitarian reasons, according to a government spokesperson on X. He did not identify the boat or confirm whether it was among those directly stopped by Israeli forces.
After registering all the passengers, Cyprus provided for their basic needs and offered consular assistance, the spokesperson added.
Israel drew international criticism on Thursday after it intercepted most of the 40 boats in the flotilla and detained more than 450 activists from Italy, Spain, and other countries. Among them was Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg. Israeli authorities said the activists would be deported.
Italy later announced that activists were expected to be flown to European capitals on Monday and Tuesday, while four Italian parliamentarians had already been released and were due to return to Rome on Friday.
Why It Matters
The interception highlights the deep international divisions over the Gaza conflict. For many activists, the flotilla represents an attempt to break the blockade and draw attention to humanitarian needs. For Israel, it is a matter of security and border control. The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions and global protests.
The stakeholders include the detained activists, their home governments, Israel, and humanitarian groups supporting aid deliveries to Gaza. Cyprus also plays a role as a logistical and humanitarian stopover point.
Future Outlook
The activists are expected to be deported soon, but similar efforts are likely to continue as campaigners seek to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza. With prominent figures like Greta Thunberg involved, future flotillas could gain even greater media coverage, raising pressure on governments and international organizations to respond.
With information from Reuters.