UN demands that Israel immediately release members of the Global Sumud Flotilla

Published at: 05/05/2026 12:22 PM

Thameen Al-Kheeta, spokesperson for the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, has formally demanded that the Zionist government of Israel immediately and unconditionally release Saif Abukeshek and Thiago de Avila, members of the Sumud Global Flotilla.

Both activists were intercepted in international waters while participating in a civilian mission and later transferred to Israeli territory, where they are being held under uncertain legal status and without formal charges being brought against them.

During his appearance, Al-Kheeta stressed that “demonstrating solidarity and trying to provide humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population of Gaza, who urgently need it, does not constitute a crime.” The arrest came as part of the Flotilla's efforts to break the blockade and deliver essential supplies to a civilian population facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The international organization emphasized that the actions of activists are protected by the right to free expression and basic humanitarian aid.

The High Commissioner expressed deep concern about the use of force in international waters to stop unarmed civilian vessels. According to the UN, these types of interventions not only contravene maritime navigation protocols, but they also set a dangerous precedent for criminalizing human rights defenders.

The agency urged Israeli authorities to guarantee the physical integrity of Abukeshek and Avila, allowing them immediate access to legal representation and consular assistance.

The UN called on the international community to increase diplomatic pressure for a peaceful resolution in accordance with international law. Al-Kheeta concluded by recalling that the systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid and the arbitrary detention of foreign citizens are practices that escalate regional tension and hinder any dialogue effort.

The Sumud Global Flotilla, for its part, has reaffirmed its commitment to continue its work until the safe passage of supplies to the Gaza Strip is guaranteed.

Mazo News Team