The solidarity voyage known as the Global Sumud Flotilla saw 137 activists, including 36 Turkish nationals, detained at sea by Israeli forces. On Saturday, they finally returned to Istanbul Airport, welcomed by officials and a cheering crowd, symbolizing a wave of global support for Gaza.
Departing from Ramon Airport in Eilat, the Turkish Airlines flight landed at 3:50 p.m. local time. According to the state-run TRT broadcaster, participants will undergo health checks before heading to the Istanbul Police Department to give statements as part of an investigation by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office into their detention in international waters.
Beyond Türkiye, activists from the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Algeria, Morocco, Italy, Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Switzerland, Tunisia, and Jordan were part of the mission, reflecting a diverse coalition pressing for humanitarian corridors to Gaza.
For young global citizens, this journey illustrates the power of grassroots campaigns to elevate human rights and aid access on the world stage. As these activists prepare to share their firsthand stories, Istanbul becomes the launchpad for renewed discussions on solidarity and international cooperation.
Reference(s):
137 Gaza flotilla activists arrive in Istanbul after Israeli detention
cgtn.com
