In Dhaka's capital, thousands of Bangladeshi residents took to the streets on Friday to voice their solidarity with Palestinians as news spread of Israel's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The protest, one of the largest in recent months, drew crowds at Dhaka University grounds and other landmarks.
The flotilla, aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and challenge the maritime blockade, was intercepted by Israeli military personnel on the high seas. More than 470 activists from diverse countries were detained in the operation, with the final vessel boarded late Friday.
Israel's Foreign Ministry confirmed that four Italian citizens have already been deported and announced plans to deport the remaining activists in the coming days. The detained volunteers include human rights advocates, students, and aid workers.
Back in Dhaka, demonstrators held placards reading Freedom for Gaza and Aid Without Borders, calling on governments and international bodies to step up humanitarian assistance and end the blockade. Social media buzzed with solidarity campaigns, amplifying calls for peaceful access to Gaza's ports.
Observers point to this event as a flashpoint in ongoing debates over maritime rights, humanitarian corridors, and global civic action. For young global citizens, the incident has underscored how digital campaigns and on-the-ground protests can converge to shape real-world policy discussions.
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Thousands rally in Dhaka against Israel's Gaza flotilla interception
cgtn.com
