Israeli authorities and international human rights monitoring organisations have confirmed the release of all detained members of the Global Sumud Flotilla.
The flotilla, which was carrying humanitarian aid destined for Gaza, was intercepted by Israeli forces earlier this week.
More than 400 volunteers and social activists from several countries were detained during the operation, including Pakistani humanitarian volunteer Saad Edhi.
US-based Palestinian rights organisation Adalah stated that the released activists are now being deported from Israel. Turkish authorities also confirmed that a number of aid workers are being transferred to Türkiye following the completion of legal and administrative procedures.
The incident attracted widespread international attention after reports emerged alleging mistreatment of detainees while in custody. Human rights groups and activists claimed that some volunteers were subjected to physical and psychological abuse, including the alleged use of tasers and rubber bullets.
Further controversy arose after Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared a video purportedly showing detained activists kneeling on the ground with their hands restrained. The footage drew criticism from several countries and international observers, who described the scenes as disturbing and inhumane.
The flotilla mission had been launched to deliver humanitarian assistance amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Israeli forces intercepted the vessels at sea, assumed control of them, and transferred the activists to detention facilities.
Governments and organisations from multiple countries, including Pakistan, condemned the detentions and called for the safe treatment and immediate release of the volunteers.
The release comes amid growing international scrutiny and diplomatic pressure surrounding the Gaza conflict, particularly concerning humanitarian access to the territory. It remains unclear whether the aid vessels involved in the mission will be returned to organisers or remain under Israeli control.
