Stories from Israel

Twelve countries, including Turkey, issued a joint statement condemning an Israeli attack on the Global Summit Fleet. Charges include deprivation of liberty, hijacking of transport vehicles, qualified looting, property damage, and torture. The attack reportedly caused at least 2,586 deaths and 8,020 injuries. Foreign ministers from 11 nations, including Turkey, Brazil, Jordan, Pakistan, Spain, and Malaysia, issued a joint statement on April 30 condemning the seizure of activists in international waters. Twelve nations from multiple continents issued a joint statement condemning Israel for intercepting an aid convoy intended for Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu has proposed extending negotiations until mid-May to avoid prolonged instability. Netanyahu also accused Hezbollah attacks of undermining previously agreed-upon arrangements.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino attempted to facilitate a peace gesture by inviting the presidents of the Israeli and Palestinian football federations to shake hands on the FIFA Congress stage. The attempt was described as unsuccessful.

Fatma Zengin, a participant on an eight-person vessel, stated that Israeli forces threw items into the sea as they approached the ship. Zengin reported that small knives kept in bags were classified as weapons by Israeli forces.

President Joseph Haoun issued a statement calling for international pressure on Israel to respect international laws and agreements. He stated that Israel must cease targeting civilians, rescue workers, civil defense, and humanitarian agencies.

The Israeli government has failed to reach an agreement on new regulations for ultra-Orthodox military conscription. This follows a Supreme Court ruling approximately two years ago that invalidated previous blanket exemptions for the group.

Ultra-Orthodox demonstrators are blocking streets with black hats and coats to protest mandatory military service. Hundreds of religious protesters gathered at a central intersection to protest against conscription. The unrest has caused traffic disruptions in the city.

Israeli envoy to the United Nations Dani Danon stated on X that another provocative flotilla was intercepted before reaching its area. A video released by a Mexico-based organization shows activist and documentary photographer Abril Rojas Ángel among those on the flotilla during the interception. Other activists were also reportedly present during the event.

Hezbollah drone attacks have wounded 12 soldiers, according to Al Jazeera Arabic. Reports indicate that the detainees include several Turkish nationals. The Israeli army arrested approximately 175 participants from a new humanitarian flotilla, according to reports in Belgium. Israel is handing over 175 crew members, including at least one New Zealander, to the Greek government after they were intercepted in the Mediterranean Sea. The crew members were part of a global Samoan flotilla of more than 50 ships attempting to break the maritime blockade of Gaza. Turkey has condemned the interception, and Italy's Prime Minister has demanded the immediate release of all participants. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar stated the 175 arrested participants will be brought to safety and landed on a Greek island beach. Many intercepted vessels remain in open sea with damaged engines or sails.

The Colombian government issued a firm call to Israeli authorities for the immediate release of three Colombian nationals. The individuals were part of the Global Sumo flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. The government reiterated the importance of respecting international law and human rights. Officials also said the need for uninterrupted humanitarian access for the Palestinian population facing difficulties due to the conflict. Foreign ministers signed a joint declaration expressing concern over the Israeli flotilla attack and the safety of detained activists. It calls on the international community to uphold international law and protect civilians.

Ali El-Samoudi reported that prisoners are facing cruel conditions, including lack of adequate food and restricted movement. He stated that children of prisoners are not doing well. The Israeli prison administration has not responded to these statements.