Four Belgians Detained by Israel Among Gaza Aid Flotilla Released
Four Belgians from the Global Sumud Flotilla, detained by Israeli authorities while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza, have been released and are en route back to Europe, reports 24brussels.
The four activists were part of a larger flotilla aiming to break the Israeli blockade by delivering humanitarian supplies to Gaza. The flotilla consisted of 43 ships, including several members of parliament and activist Greta Thunberg. The Israeli Navy intercepted the vessels last week, detaining over 400 crew members, including the four Belgians.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot confirmed their release via X on Monday. “Thanks to the work of the foreign affairs ministry, our four compatriots and the Luxembourg citizen from the Global Sumud fleet who were detained by Israel, are now free again. They are on their way to Europe, more specifically to Greece, and I would like to thank the Greek authorities for their cooperation,” Minister Prévot stated. “I am relieved that they can return safely to their families.”
Belgian diplomats remain in close contact with the families of the detainees and Luxembourg authorities to coordinate their return to Brussels. Minister Prévot emphasized a commitment to continue advocating for the lifting of the humanitarian blockade around Gaza and a rapid ceasefire, alongside the release of all hostages.
In today’s developments, Israel has released a total of 171 activists from the Gaza aid flotilla, who are now on their way to Greece and Slovakia, including Greta Thunberg.
Boat of the Global Sumud Flotilla © Giovanni ISOLINO / AFP