Belgium Summons Israeli Ambassador Following Global Sumud Flotilla Interception

Diplomatic Action Taken After Flotilla Interception

Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot summoned the Israeli ambassador to Belgium, Idit Rosenzweig-Abu, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, to convey Belgium's protest regarding the Israeli Navy's interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The diplomatic move came after the international aid convoy, which included seven Belgian citizens, was boarded in international waters while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Minister Prévot stated that 'the manner in which they were boarded and the location in international waters are unacceptable,' emphasizing the serious nature of the incident. He had previously warned the Israeli ambassador that 'it would in no case be acceptable for our citizens to be assimilated to terrorists.'

Details of the Global Sumud Flotilla Incident

The Global Sumud Flotilla, also known as the Global Freedom Flotilla, comprised approximately 51 vessels carrying over 500 participants from more than 44 countries. The initiative, which set sail from Barcelona in late August 2025, aimed to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver humanitarian supplies.

On October 1 and 2, 2025, the Israeli Navy intercepted the flotilla vessels as they neared Gaza, detaining activists and transporting them to the Israeli port of Ashdod. Among the Belgian citizens confirmed to be on board were human rights lawyer Alexis Deswaef and activist Latifa Gharbaoui. An Irish national residing in Belgium, Catríona Graham, was also considered part of the Belgian delegation. Notable participants also included Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Prior to the main interception, the flotilla had reported drone attacks and the presence of naval vessels in its vicinity.

Belgium's Stance and International Reactions

Foreign Minister Prévot underscored that Belgium's top priority is to ensure the safety, health, and rapid return of its citizens. He urged the Israeli government to respect international law, including maritime law, in its handling of the situation.

The incident sparked protests in Brussels, with over 4,000 demonstrators gathering at the Foreign Affairs Ministry on Thursday afternoon to condemn the Israeli action and call for an end to the Gaza blockade. Internationally, the interception drew widespread condemnation and concern:

• Colombia expelled Israeli diplomats.
• France called on Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens and guarantee consular access.
• Italian dockworkers initiated strikes in protest, and the Italian government, along with Spain, had previously sent naval ships to monitor the flotilla.
• Various other countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Turkey, also expressed criticism or demanded the release of their citizens.

The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla marks a significant diplomatic incident, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding the Gaza blockade and the rights of humanitarian convoys in international waters.