Spanish police arrested four activists from the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla after clashes erupted at Bilbao Airport during the return of members of a Spanish delegation from Turkey. Videos circulating online showed officers dragging activists across the terminal floor and striking them with batons. Authorities said the detainees were accused of serious disobedience, resisting arrest, and assaulting an officer.

The confrontation reportedly began when members of a Basque delegation posed for cameras and tensions flared between police and people waiting in the terminal. The Basque Security Department said an internal investigation had been opened to determine whether officers acted in accordance with regulations.

The incident added to diplomatic tensions between Spain and Israel. Spain had recently summoned Israel's diplomatic representative over a controversial video by Israel's national security minister mocking detained flotilla activists. In response to the airport clashes, Israel's Foreign Ministry demanded an explanation from Madrid and accused the activists of provoking disorder wherever they travel.

A Basque left wing party condemned the police response as excessive and called for the immediate release of those detained, while also seeking a parliamentary review of the incident. The airport unrest came amid broader protests in Madrid, where large crowds gathered to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez over corruption allegations.