Interception of vessels of the “Global Sumud Flotilla” by Israel and arbitrary detention of Brazilian citizens

The Brazilian Government strongly condemns the illegal interception and the arbitrary detention, by Israel, in the early hours of last night, in international waters, of the vessels that are part of the “Global Sumud Flotilla,” as well as the unlawful detention of peaceful activists, among them fifteen Brazilian nationals, including Federal Deputy Luizianne Lins. Brazil urges the Israeli government to immediately release the Brazilian citizens and other detained human rights defenders.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, through the Embassy of Brazil in Tel Aviv and the Embassy of Israel in Brasília, was formally notified of Brazil’s objection to the actions of the Israeli government.

In view of the peaceful nature of the flotilla and its objective of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, its interception by Israeli forces constitutes a serious violation of international law, including international maritime law, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which enshrines the freedom of navigation.

Operations of a strictly humanitarian nature must be authorized and facilitated by all parties in conflict and cannot be arbitrarily obstructed or deemed unlawful. Brazil calls upon the international community to demand that Israel cease the blockade of Gaza, as it constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law.

Brazil further recalls Israel’s legal obligations under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963) and demands that consular visits by officials of the Embassy of Brazil in Tel Aviv be facilitated to all Brazilian activists illegally detained.

Brazil expresses its position that Israel must be held accountable for any unlawful and violent acts committed against the Flotilla and against the peaceful activists participating therein, and must ensure their safety, well-being, and physical integrity while under the custody of Israeli authorities.