Cyprus Provides Refuge for Gaza Flotilla Boat Amidst International Tensions
A boat from a Gaza aid flotilla intercepted by Israel has docked in Cyprus for refueling and humanitarian reasons. Cyprus has offered basic aid and consular support to the 21 foreign passengers aboard. The incident has sparked international condemnation, with many activists detained and facing deportation.
- Country:
- Greece
A vessel from a flotilla carrying aid to Gaza has found temporary refuge in Cyprus after being intercepted by Israeli forces. The ship, hosting 21 international passengers, sought docking in Larnaca citing the need for refueling and humanitarian aid, a government spokesperson shared on the platform X.
The boat's identity remains unknown, as does its inclusion among those stopped by Israel. Cyprus has attended to the passengers' basic needs and provided consular services. Worldwide backlash ensued after Israel intercepted the flotilla, detaining more than 450 activists from countries such as Italy, Spain, and Sweden, including noted Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg, whom they plan to deport.
Italy announced its expectation that the detained activists will be flown to European capitals next week. In a related development, four Italian parliamentarians, part of the flotilla, were released and scheduled to return to Rome.
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