RismadarVoice Reporters, May 21, 2026
The Spanish government has announced that 44 activists involved in the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla are expected to be deported from Israel and transported to Spain through Türkiye.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the activists are scheduled to depart on a flight expected to leave at approximately 3 p.m. local time, following recent developments surrounding their detention.
The activists were intercepted earlier this week during a maritime operation that reportedly took place in international waters, an incident that has generated diplomatic reactions and criticism from Spanish authorities.
Spain condemned Israel’s actions following the interception, describing the operation as unlawful under international law and calling for the immediate release and safe return of its citizens and other detained individuals.
The diplomatic tension further escalated after Spanish authorities reacted to footage released by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, which allegedly showed detained activists being subjected to mistreatment while in custody.
In response, Spain summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires for explanations regarding the incident.
Spanish officials strongly criticised the treatment shown in the footage, describing it as unacceptable and raising concerns over the welfare and treatment of the detained activists.
The incident has drawn wider international attention as debates continue over humanitarian missions to Gaza, maritime operations in the region, and broader tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict.
Israeli authorities had not immediately provided further details regarding the deportation arrangements or responded to the latest diplomatic criticisms at the time of reporting.
