Istanbul, 4 October 2025 — A special flight carrying 137 international activists from the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla landed at Istanbul Airport on Saturday, following their forcible detention and deportation by Israeli authorities. The group had been intercepted in international waters while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Multinational Group of Deportees
The deported activists represent a diverse coalition from 14 countries, including:
- Turkey – 36 citizens
- Malaysia – 23 citizens
- Italy – 22 citizens
- Ireland – 22 citizens
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Libya
- Algeria
- Mauritania
- Bahrain
- Morocco
- Switzerland
While exact numbers for some countries remain unconfirmed, Irish officials have verified that 22 Irish citizens were involved, with 16 detained and 6 participating in support roles or aboard secondary vessels. Among those detained were Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews, poet Sarah Clancy, comedian Tadhg Hickey, and several humanitarian workers and legal observers.
Turkey’s Role in Repatriation
The Turkish government coordinated the repatriation effort, facilitating the return of its own citizens and offering transit for others. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the Israeli interception as a violation of international law and pledged continued support for humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
Legal and Diplomatic Fallout
The flotilla, comprising over 500 activists from 47 countries, was intercepted by the Israeli Navy, which claimed the vessels were attempting to breach a lawful blockade. Activists insist their mission was peaceful and aimed at delivering medical supplies, food, and water to civilians in Gaza.
The incident has sparked diplomatic tensions, with several governments — including Ireland, Malaysia, and Italy — demanding accountability and consular access. Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that its embassy team in Israel provided legal and medical support to the detained citizens and remains in contact with their families.
Broader Implications
The Global Sumud Flotilla, named after the Arabic word for “steadfastness,” has reignited international debate over the legality of the Gaza blockade and the treatment of humanitarian activists. Calls for an independent investigation and renewed pressure on Israel to ease restrictions on humanitarian access are growing.
Sources: RTÉ, The Journal, TRT World, Straits Times.
