Two Canadian citizens who were part of a flotilla attempting to break Israel's maritime blockade of Gaza have been released, the organizer confirmed on Friday. The activists were among those intercepted by Israeli forces near the southern Greek island of Crete on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Flotilla Intercepted Near Crete
The flotilla, organized by the Global Sumud Flotilla, set sail from Barcelona earlier this month with the aim of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israeli naval forces boarded the vessels in international waters, detaining several activists. The operation was captured on black-and-white CCTV footage showing crew members with their hands raised.
Canadians Released
According to the flotilla organizer, the two Canadians have been released and are in good health. Their names have not been disclosed at their request. The organizer expressed relief at their release but condemned the interception as a violation of international law.
The incident has drawn attention to the ongoing blockade of Gaza, which Israel says is necessary to prevent arms smuggling. Critics argue it constitutes collective punishment against the civilian population.
