Copenhagen: Ireland's Prime Minister Micheal Martin has openly criticized Israel's recent attack on the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, labeling it a "breach of international maritime law." This statement was made ahead of the European Political Community meeting in Copenhagen.

According to Anadolu Agency, Martin emphasized that if the flotilla attack occurred in international waters, it indeed contravenes maritime law. He highlighted the humanitarian nature of the mission, which aimed to deliver necessary aid to the people of Gaza and draw attention to their plight. Martin reiterated the urgency of ensuring swift delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and assured that consular assistance would be provided to the detained individuals, stressing the necessity for their appropriate treatment.

The incident involved Israeli naval forces targeting the aid flotilla, which was heading towards the Gaza Strip. The attack resulted in the detention of 223 activists on board, as reported by the flotilla's organizers. The Global Sumud Flotilla disclosed on Instagram the identities and nationalities of those aboard the 15 vessels that were attacked. The activists represented a broad range of nationalities, including citizens from Spain, Italy, Brazil, Turkey, Greece, the United States, Germany, Sweden, the UK, France, and others.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry announced via the social media platform X that the apprehended activists were being transported to Israel's Ashdod Port, from where they would be deported to Europe. Meanwhile, the flotilla's official tracker indicated that 21 vessels had been intercepted by Israeli forces, with an additional 23 still making their way towards Gaza.