Tel aviv: Two Australian nationals, who were detained aboard a Gaza-bound aid ship by Israeli forces, have been released, as reported by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Handala ship, which was carrying essential supplies like baby formula, food, and medicine, was seized by Israeli forces near the Gaza coast. The vessel had 21 unarmed civilians on board, including lawmakers, medics, and volunteers. Among the detainees were Australian citizens Tan Safi and Robert Martin, who have now been released from Givon Prison in Ramlah, central Israel, and transferred to the Australian Embassy in Jordan. The coalition indicated that they are soon set to return to their home countries after necessary procedures are completed.
The Israeli Adalah legal center reported that seven out of the 14 remaining activists were moved to the airport in preparation for deportation. However, the center has not provided updated information on the status of the other activists, citing administrative delays at the airport. Adalah also highlighted that the detained activists are on a hunger strike for the fourth consecutive day, protesting their unlawful detention and the 'harsh and degrading detention conditions.'
The Freedom Flotilla Coalition launched the Handala in an attempt to break the ongoing Israeli siege on Gaza, which has led to severe food shortages for its 2.4 million residents. Over recent months, Israel has intercepted several aid ships in international waters, including the Madleen in June and the MV Conscience in May.
The blockade on Gaza, imposed by Israel for 18 years, remains in place, with all crossings closed since March 2, blocking the entry of aid convoys. Gaza's Health Ministry reports that at least 147 people, including 88 children, have died from starvation since October 2023.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli military offensive on Gaza continues, resulting in nearly 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 7, 2023, with the majority being women and children. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its military actions in the enclave.