image sourced from original article at Italy has called for the immediate release of its nationals who were detained after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters near Greece. The vessels had set sail earlier this month from Barcelona in an attempt to challenge Israel's maritime blockade of Gaza.
The Italian government condemned the seizure of the Global Sumud Flotilla vessels and described the detention of its citizens as unlawful. It urged Israel to free all detained Italians without delay.
Israeli authorities said they detained about 175 activists after stopping 21 of the 58 boats involved in the flotilla. Footage released by Israel showed activists being taken into custody and transported toward Israeli territory.
