Two Canadians were detained by Israeli authorities after their boats were intercepted during a mission to challenge the long-standing naval blockade of Gaza, according to Canadian flotilla organizers on Thursday. The individuals were identified as Marie Tota and Umir Tiar by the Global Sumud Flotilla. Tota is a nurse from Ontario, while Tiar is a student from Quebec City, as confirmed by Safa Chebbi, the spokesperson for Global Sumud Canada.
The interception took place in international waters, with more than 180 activists detained as Israeli forces halted 22 boats in the flotilla, as reported by Chebbi. Ehab Lotayef, an organizer with the Freedom Flotilla, noted that the boats were stopped west of the Greek island of Crete, over 500 nautical miles away from Israel and Gaza. Lotayef expressed concern over the interception, emphasizing that the activists were unarmed civilians aiming to provide aid and raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar assured that all detained participants were unharmed and would be transferred to Greece shortly. Global Sumud Canada highlighted that Israeli forces disrupted communications, damaged multiple ships, and left activists stranded at sea without power during the operation. One Canadian woman was left on a damaged boat but was later rescued by Greenpeace and Spanish NGO Open Arms, according to Chebbi.
Despite not witnessing the military action firsthand, Chebbi mentioned that drones surrounded their vessel after their internet connection was disrupted. Lotayef urged the Canadian government to take immediate action to ensure the safe return of the detained Canadians. Global Sumud Canada demanded consular intervention for Tota and Tiar, urging the government to advocate for an end to the blockade and support safe passage for the flotilla to Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla emphasized the need for international intervention, condemning Israel’s actions extending to European waters. The organization highlighted concerns over the legality of Israel enforcing the naval blockade in international waters. Turkey’s foreign ministry labeled the seizure of boats as “an act of piracy,” criticizing Israel for violating humanitarian principles and international law.
In past incidents, Israel detained over 400 activists, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg and Nelson Mandela’s grandson during a previous sailing of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The escalation of tensions underscores the ongoing challenges in the region, despite a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. The blockade continues to impact the lives of Gaza residents, with limited aid entering through controlled border points.