Poland summons Israeli diplomat over detention of Gaza aid flotilla activists

WEB DESK: Poland has summoned Israel’s chargé d’affaires following the abduction and detention of international activists, including two Polish nationals, who were participating in the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla.

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski confirmed the diplomatic move on Thursday, demanding the immediate release of the detained citizens, according to Al Jazeera.

The vessel, carrying humanitarian aid intended for the blockaded Gaza Strip, was intercepted by Israeli forces earlier this week.

Diplomatic tension escalates

Taking to social media to express Warsaw’s official stance, Mr Sikorski issued a firm directive regarding the safety and legal status of the captive activists.

“We demand the immediate release of Polish citizens and their treatment in a manner consistent with international standards,” the Foreign Minister stated in a post published on X, formerly Twitter.

The decision to formally summon the Israeli chargé d’affaires underscores the growing friction between Warsaw and Jerusalem over the safety of aid workers and international volunteers in the region.

Activists intercepted at sea

According to organisers of the humanitarian aid mission, the Global Sumud Flotilla was carrying volunteers from various nationalities aiming to deliver essential supplies to Gaza.

Among those on board were two Polish nationals whose current whereabouts and conditions remain a primary concern for the Polish government.

The interception of the flotilla is the latest in a series of maritime confrontations involving international aid convoys challenging the blockade.

Polish officials have indicated they are closely monitoring the situation and are working to secure consular access to their citizens.