European countries condemn Israel for intercepting Gaza-bound flotilla

European countries on Wednesday urged Israel to ensure the safety of their citizens on Gaza-bound aid ships, following its interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla earlier in the day.

The flotilla, consisting of around 50 vessels carrying more than 500 volunteers from over 40 countries, seeks to challenge Israel's naval blockade and deliver food and medical aid to Palestinians.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed that it "detained several ships from the flotilla," adding that the process had been "safe" and the "passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port."

Portuguese authorities confirmed that three citizens, including a member of Parliament, have been detained.

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Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa pledged to provide "full consular support" through its embassy in Tel Aviv to ensure their rights and safe return.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto condemned the incident "in the strongest manner," noting that Italian citizens were also on board. He added that he had authorized the "immediate intervention" of a navy unit, which is heading to the area for possible rescue operations.

France and Spain also expressed concern, urging Israel to ensure the safety of their citizens, guarantee their right to consular protection, and allow their prompt return.

Late Wednesday night, the flotilla denounced what it called "active aggression" of the Israeli military on Telegram, noting that the vessel Florida was "deliberately rammed at sea," while Yulara, Meteque and others were hit with water cannons.

Although all crew members were unharmed, "these illegal attacks against unarmed humanitarian vessels constitute a war crime," it said.