An Israeli court has extended the detention of two activists arrested during a Gaza-bound flotilla interception. The ruling came from the Ashkelon Magistrate’s Court and extends custody until May 10. The activists were detained after Israeli forces intercepted the vessel in international waters. The case is linked to efforts to break the blockade of Gaza.
The detained individuals include Spanish national Saif Abu Keshek and Brazilian activist Thiago Avila. Both were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission. Israeli authorities transferred them to Israel following the interception near Greece. Other activists from the flotilla were taken to Crete and later deported.
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The activists were initially held until Tuesday, but the court extended their detention by six more days. Israeli prosecutors accused them of serious security-related offences. These include alleged contact with a terrorist organisation and aiding the enemy. The court said there was reasonable suspicion to justify the extension.
Human rights lawyers from Adalah challenged the allegations in court. They argued there were no legal grounds for continued detention without formal charges. The defence said the activists were being held for interrogation purposes. They announced plans to appeal the decision and seek immediate release.
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Israel has denied allegations of mistreatment in custody. The case is part of wider tensions surrounding repeated flotilla attempts to reach Gaza. Organisers say their mission is humanitarian and aimed at breaking the naval blockade. Israeli authorities continue to block such attempts citing security concerns.