More than 150 activists from 37 countries, including Great Britain, were detained in the raid. They are part of a 47-ship maritime flotilla aimed at breaking Israel's blockade and delivering aid to Gaza.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry stated that all ships have been safely intercepted and passengers are being sent to an Israeli port. The ministry also confirmed that Greta Thunberg and her companions are safe and well.
This is the second time Israel has detained Greta Thunberg while attempting to reach Gaza. She previously attempted this in June of this year. She then sailed for Gaza with 11 others on a ship called Madeleine.
Israel seized their ship and detained all 12 people. Greta and her companions were then put on a plane and sent back.\
Turkey described the action as akin to terrorism and said it was a serious violation of international law. South Africa appealed for restraint and for the safety of unarmed people on board the flotilla to be ensured.
Greece and Italy urged Israel to ensure the safety of those on board the flotilla.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appealed to the flotilla to stop its journey, saying it could harm Gaza peace talks.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that these workers are not a threat to Israel and hoped that Israel would not endanger them either.
Spokesman Saif Abukhashekh said that 13 ships have been intercepted so far, but about 30 are still at sea and on their way to Gaza.
He said that at 8:30 pm (Gaza time), Israeli forces intercepted and seized some ships. Subsequently, contact with several ships was lost.
The Pakistani PM condemned the Israeli action
Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Foreign Ministry condemned the attack. PM Shahbaz said, "Israel unjustly attacked a 40-ship flotilla carrying more than 450 people carrying aid."
He said, "We demand the release and safety of those captured. Their only fault was that they were helping the people of Gaza. This brutality must stop."
The Pakistani Foreign Ministry stated that the attack was part of Israel's Gaza blockade and aggression.
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