Australian government says officials in Tel Aviv requested early consular access to those detained from Global Sumud Flotilla
Australian government says officials in Tel Aviv requested early consular access to those detained from Global Sumud Flotilla
At least five Australians are reported to be among those detained by the Israeli government on a pro-Palestinian flotilla carrying aid to Gaza.
Israel said overnight it had stopped the flotilla, with its navy intercepting all but one of the vessels trying to breach the blockade. Of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s 42 vessels, 41 were listed as having been confirmed or assumed to have been stopped by Israeli forces. The flotilla was carrying about 500 people, including parliamentarians, lawyers and activists such as Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.
The Australian government said on Friday morning that it was seeking confirmation from Tel Aviv about how many of its citizens were among those in Israeli custody and had asked to be granted consular access to any Australians.
A spokesperson for the department of foreign affairs and trade said: “Australian officials in Tel Aviv are liaising with Israeli authorities and have formally requested confirmation of the detention of any Australians and early consular access.
“Australia calls on all parties to respect international law, to ensure the safety and humane treatment of those involved.
