JERUSALEM — Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is among more than 70 international participants who are expected to leave Israel today, following their detention after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla, according to AFP.
Officials confirmed that the majority of those released including citizens from France, Greece, Italy, and Sweden will be flown to Greece, from where they will return to their respective home countries.
Diplomatic sources said that 28 French nationals, 27 Greeks, 15 Italians, and nine Swedes are among those being flown out on special repatriation flights arranged by their governments.
The release follows days of diplomatic negotiations involving several European countries seeking the safe return of their citizens. However, Israeli authorities are still holding several foreign nationals, including 28 Spanish citizens, whose cases remain under review.
The flotilla, carrying activists and humanitarian supplies, was stopped earlier this week as it attempted to reach the blockaded Gaza Strip a move that sparked international concern and renewed debate over Israel’s handling of pro-Palestinian missions.
Officials in Athens, Paris, and Rome have confirmed that their embassies are coordinating closely with Israeli authorities to ensure the remaining detainees are released in the coming days.
Greta Thunberg’s participation in the flotilla had drawn global attention, highlighting the growing involvement of climate and human rights activists in humanitarian causes linked to the Gaza crisis.
