Gaza Flotilla Activists Begin Hunger Strike
Dozens of Gaza aid flotilla activists, detained by Israel, have begun a hunger strike protesting their abduction and showing solidarity.
Lauren Collins ·
At least 87 activists, detained by Israeli forces from a humanitarian aid flotilla bound for Gaza, initiated a hunger strike on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The action protests their abduction and expresses solidarity with Palestinian detainees in Israel, according to the Global Sumud Flotilla organizers.
Israeli forces intercepted the final vessel, the Lina al-Nabulsi, in international waters off Cyprus, detaining six individuals. This followed earlier interceptions of over 50 vessels that departed from Marmaris, Turkey, aiming to challenge Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the transfer of 430 activists to Israel, where they would have consular access.
Countries including Turkey, Spain, Jordan, and Indonesia condemned the interceptions as violations of international law. Indonesia's foreign ministry called for the immediate release of its nine citizens and all vessels. Conversely, the United States imposed sanctions on four activists involved in Gaza flotillas, alleging support for Hamas.