Israel releases all but two activists in Greece after intercepting Gaza aid flotilla

Key Points:

• Nearly all pro-Palestinian activists detained by Israeli forces after their flotilla aimed at Gaza was intercepted near Crete have been released in Greece, except for two men held in Israel for questioning on suspicions of terrorism and illegal activity.
• The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) condemned Israel's interception as "piracy" and unlawful seizure in international waters, demanding the immediate release of the two detained activists and calling on governments to pressure Israel.
• Israel defended its actions as lawful, citing the need to prevent a breach of the naval blockade on Gaza and accusing the flotilla of collaborating with Hamas to undermine peace efforts; it also reported finding drugs and contraceptives on the vessels.
• Greece provided diplomatic assistance by hosting the released activists and facilitating their safe return home, while countries like Italy and Spain called for the release of their detained nationals and condemned Israel's actions as violations of international law.
• The flotilla's goal was to challenge Israel's blockade of Gaza and push for a permanent humanitarian corridor, amid ongoing dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza despite some improvements in aid access following a ceasefire in October.