Six Australians who were detained by Israeli forces while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza have been released on the Greek island of Crete. Three of them were taken to hospital with cuts, bruises, and a possible concussion.
The activists were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which sought to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. Israeli forces intercepted the flotilla off the coast of Greece earlier this week, detaining around 175 people from more than 20 boats.
Among the injured Australians are Ethan Floyd, Zack Schofield, and Neve O'Connor, who recorded a video message from Sitia General Hospital in Crete. Two other activists, from Spain and Brazil, were taken to Israel for questioning.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed consular officials are in Crete to assist the released Australians. The department has urged Australians not to join such efforts, citing risks of injury, death, arrest, or deportation.
Israel's defense minister stated that all crew members were removed unharmed, but flotilla organizers described the interception as a violent raid. The flotilla, comprising over 50 boats, aimed to deliver food and medical supplies to Gaza, which has been under an Israeli blockade since the war with Hamas began in October 2023.
