On May 1, 2026, Israel announced it has released all but two activists detained after intercepting a Gaza humanitarian aid flotilla near the Greek island of Crete, where 175 people were initially taken into custody.

According to the BBC, Israel conducted questioning and screening of the activists following the interception before releasing most of them in batches. The identities of the two individuals still being held have not been disclosed, and Israeli authorities have not provided specific reasons for their continued detention.

The aid flotilla was attempting to break Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver humanitarian supplies to residents. The voyage from a Greek port had drawn significant international attention, with activists from multiple countries participating in the mission.

Israel has previously intercepted similar aid flotillas and faced international criticism for detaining large numbers of international activists. Human rights organizations have called on Israel to ensure the legal rights of all detainees and to allow humanitarian supplies to reach Gaza.

Analysts suggest that Israel’s decision to release most of the activists may be aimed at reducing international pressure while avoiding further diplomatic disputes. However, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, and calls from the international community to lift the blockade are growing louder.

Source: BBC