Israel sends 175 flotilla passengers to Crete, 2 detained on suspicion of terror ties, illegal activities

Israel’s Foreign Ministry: “This flotilla, led by Hamas, is another provocation intended to divert attention from Hamas’ refusal to disarm.”

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israel transferred approximately 175 pro-Palestinian activists from the intercepted Global Sumud flotilla to Crete after seizing vessels bound for Gaza, while detaining two individuals for further questioning, officials said Friday.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said all participants from the most recent Gaza-bound flotilla had arrived on the Greek island, except for two activists taken to Israel following recommendations from Shin Bet intelligence officials.

The two were identified as Saif Abu Kashk, suspected of links to a terrorist organization, and Thiago Avila, described as an organizer of the current and previous flotillas and suspected of illegal activity.

The Israeli Navy boarded and seized more than 20 ships in international waters off Crete, citing enforcement of the maritime blockade on Gaza.

Following coordination with the Greek government, Israeli vessels transported the activists to shore, where they disembarked on a beach.

According to reports, dozens of other boats associated with the flotilla remained at sea near Crete, while the intercepted vessels were taken into Israeli control.

Organizers of the flotilla condemned the operation, describing it as “piracy” and “kidnapping.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar defended the action, calling the flotilla a “PR stunt” and thanking Greece for its cooperation in receiving the participants.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said: “This flotilla, led by Hamas, is another provocation intended to divert attention from Hamas’ refusal to disarm — and to serve the public relations interests of professional provocateurs.”

The operation followed what was described as a “second flotilla” attempting to breach the blockade, with activists saying they were carrying humanitarian aid.

Separately, Thiago Avila has been accused of “sexual misconduct” involving at least three volunteers during the voyage, with allegations that he used his position to engage in relationships with multiple participants under his authority.