Israel has deported Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and 170 others who were detained after Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza last week. The group, which included international peace campaigners, was taken into custody after their vessels were stopped in what Israel described as a security operation to prevent unauthorised shipments into the blockaded territory.
A statement from Israel’s interior ministry confirmed their deportation early Monday, saying the activists had been “returned to their respective countries” following questioning. The flotilla, organisers said, was part of a humanitarian mission aimed at breaking the siege on Gaza and delivering urgently needed supplies.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Israel and Hamas are set to begin in Egypt today, with international mediators pushing to advance Donald Trump’s proposed Gaza peace plan.
The Red Cross said it was prepared to facilitate the return of hostages and the delivery of aid into the enclave as part of any deal reached.
According to Israel’s Gaza correspondent, preparatory talks began at 10:00 local time (08:00 BST), although the main delegations have yet to meet. “There is huge momentum, but no guarantee of a deal,” wrote Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the latest diplomatic efforts.
Hamas has reportedly agreed to some, but not all, of the conditions outlined in the US-brokered plan. On Sunday, President Donald Trump said: “I am told that the first phase should be completed this week.”
Despite the diplomatic push, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have continued. The territory’s civil defence agency reported that 24 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours, underscoring the fragile situation on the ground as talks get underway.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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