Spain has demanded the immediate release of a Spanish citizen detained by Israel after naval forces intercepted a flotilla attempting to reach Gaza. An Israeli court extended the detention of Saif Abu Keshek by two days without filing formal charges, prompting Spain's Foreign Ministry to protest and send its consul to attend the hearing. Brazil is also seeking the release of its detained national, Thiago Ávila.

The two men were among more than 170 activists removed from several boats that Israel said were trying to breach its maritime blockade. A legal advocacy group stated that both detainees have begun a hunger strike, alleging mistreatment during and after the interception. Ávila claimed he was dragged and beaten, while Abu Keshek was reportedly restrained and blindfolded for an extended period.

Israel's Foreign Ministry accused the activists of ties to the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad, which the United States has designated as affiliated with Hamas. Spain and Brazil condemned the interception as an abduction in international waters, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez pledged to defend Spain's citizens and uphold international law as diplomatic tensions escalate.